Women's Experiences Research Articles

Women's Experiences of Sexual Harassment in Online Gaming.

To better understand the types of sexual harassment women experience in online gaming, their labeling of such experiences, and the relationship between the perpetrator and the victim, we surveyed women gamers to inquire about their experiences. Participants were 182 women from North America who played online video games. Overall, 56.6% of participants reported experiencing one or more types of sexual harassment during online gaming. Additionally, 45.6% of participants reported witnessing one or more types of sexual harassment perpetrated against other women. About half (50.5%) of participants who had experienced harassment labeled their own experiences as "sexual harassment," and 42.2% labeled the behaviors that they witnessed against someone else as "sexual harassment." Results speak to the need for prevention interventions to protect women gamers.

The unity of body and mind: the integration of leisure and religious practices by rural older women in the Chaoshan area of China

Leisure activities are of great significance to the active aging processes of rural older individuals. This paper focuses on the leisure activities of rural older women in China. Interviews and observations were used to collect the experiences of older women who participated in the Nembutsu hand-clapping exercise (NHCE), a leisure activity with a religious component. We reached the following conclusions. The older individuals experienced three stages of the integration of leisure and religion, i.e., “religion as an additional function,” “religion embedded in leisure,” and “interdependence between religion and leisure.” The NHCE is suitable for older women and provides them with benefits such as gender empowerment, social capital, and identity. This paper expands the body of research on the relationship between religion and leisure and provides a study based on the Chinese context for the construction of leisure theory for rural older women.

"I Felt Like I Was Cut in Two": Postcesarean Bodies and Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Switzerland.

In neoliberal cultural contexts, where the ideal prevails that female bodies should be unchanged by reproductive processes, women often feel uncomfortable with their postpartum bodies. Cesareaned women suffer from additional discomfort during the postpartum period, and cesarean births are associated with less satisfying childbirth experiences, fostering feelings of failure among women who had planned a vaginal delivery. In Switzerland, one in three deliveries is a cesarean. Despite the frequency of this surgery, women complain that their biomedical follow-up provides minimal postpartum support. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapists address these issues by providing somatic and emotional postcesarean care. CAM is heavily gendered in that practitioners and users are overwhelmingly women and in that most CAM approaches rely on the essentialization of bodies. Based on interviews with cesareaned women and with CAM therapists specialized in postcesarean recovery, I explore women's postpartum experiences and how they reclaim their postcesarean bodies.

Gender Dynamics in STEM Fields: Women's Experiences in Different Cultural Contexts

Purpose: The general aim of this study was to explore gender dynamics in STEM fields particularly, women’s experiences in different cultural contexts. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the gender dynamics in STEM fields. Through a comparative analysis across diverse cultural settings, significant variations in women's experiences in STEM were revealed, with some societies demonstrating greater gender equity and support for women. However, persistent disparities and challenges related to cultural norms and gender roles were observed in others. The research underscored the intersectional nature of gender dynamics in STEM, emphasizing the interconnectedness of gender with other dimensions of identity such as race and ethnicity. Additionally, cultural stereotypes and societal expectations were identified as significant barriers to women's participation and advancement in STEM fields. The findings underscored the importance of context-specific approaches to promoting gender equity in STEM and highlighted the need for challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusive environments for women in STEM fields globally. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Cognitive Career theory (SCCT), intersectionality theory and Cultural-Historical Activity theory (CHAT) may be used to anchor future studies on gender dynamics in STEM fields. The study provided valuable recommendations with significant implications for theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical advancements by highlighting the intersectional nature of gender dynamics in STEM, offering practical recommendations for stakeholders in education and workforce development, and suggesting policy interventions aimed at promoting gender equity in STEM fields. The study emphasized the importance of organizational change, global collaboration, and continuous evaluation and improvement in advancing gender equity in STEM. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders could work towards creating more equitable and inclusive environments where women could thrive and contribute meaningfully to STEM fields worldwide.

A qualitative exploration of the experiences of pregnant women living with obesity and accessing antenatal care.

Women are advised to optimise weight before pregnancy. However, many are either already living with overweight or obesity prior to becoming pregnant, increasing the risks for adverse outcomes. Health care professionals (HCP) are responsible for advising women of risks throughout and following pregnancy. However, midwives often find broaching the conversation around maternal obesity difficult. This study explored the experiences of pregnant women living with obesity in accessing antenatal care. Seventeen women completed a semi-structured interview. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Four themes were developed: 1) antenatal care is inconsistent, 2) additional support is needed, 3) women feel judged about their weight, and 4) weight cycling is highly prevalent. Findings suggest that pregnant women living with obesity often experience weight bias from HCPs, feel judged because of their weight and are left feeling confused and overlooked. Women reported inconsistencies in advice and care offered and acknowledged a lack of continuity of care throughout pregnancy. We call for an urgent need for further multidisciplinary training to address the concerns, experiences and needs of pregnant women living with obesity.

Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Cases During Pandemic: Experiences of Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) Officers in Cebu City

This study aimed to explore the life experiences of the Women and Children Desk (WCPD) handling Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) cases during the pandemic in Cebu City. Specifically, sought to address the following specific problems: the experiences of the informants in handling VAWC cases during the Covid-19 pandemic, addressing the problems encountered by the informants, and aspirations of the informants to improve the quality of service to the victims of VAWC. The phenomenological and qualitative approach in this study was utilized through interviews as the key process in the gathering of data. There were ten (10) selected police officers handling Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) during the Covid-19 pandemic in Cebu City. Five (5) of them were individually interviewed, while the other five (5) were included in the Focused Group Discussion (FGD). They were selected randomly but met the qualifications and have broad experience in the subject matter. The research locations are the top five (5) police stations in Cebu City with a high number of VAWC cases is Cebu City namely: Police Station (PS) 4- Mabolo; PS5- Carbon; PS7- Pardo; PS9- Guadalupe and PS10- Punta. A validated interview guide was aided by the voice recorder for the basis of transcribing the responses of the informants. Utilization of Colaizzi's method, a phenomenological analysis procedure, was used to analyze the responses of the informants during the interview. For the experiences of the informants in handling VAWC cases in Cebu City during a pandemic, themes created were Satisfaction with Desired Result, Attained Productivity, and Embracing Limitations of Official Functions in addressing the problems encountered in handling (VAWC) cases during pandemic, the following themes created were: Intensified Implementation of Restrictions, Established Online Presence, and Maintaining Effective Collaboration and for the aspirations of the informants to improve the quality of service to the victims of VAWC, the following theme were created: New Normal Retooling and Equipment for Stabilization. The Philippine National Police (PNP)- Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) officers, as a specialized unit in enforcing laws related to the protection of women and children and regarded as the “quick-response-unit,” must maintain dynamic and standardized public service. It is suggested that the Performance Standards and Assessment Tool for police service addressing cases of violence against women be amended where the assessment tool should not be done as “Self-administered” to identify committed officers who are working diligently to end violence against women and children. The retooling of PNP-WCPD should not only cover policy-related attitudes, habits, and work ethics but should also investigate an array of services that can be extended during a crisis. The provision of additional facilities and personnel to attend VAWC cases will expedite the acquisition of relevant documents for filing legal actions and will be timely in the recent health crisis. This will enable the Department of Health to provide prompt intervention on the outbreak of mental health problems aggravated by the pandemic. PNP-WCPD and other linkages should develop process-based alternatives and act on the research of shared resources from the Covid-19 experiences because health protocols altered policing strategies and are not conducive to problem-oriented crime prevention and innovation.

Learned Women, “Leftover” Women, and “The Third Sex” Women's Learning in the Confucian Tradition and Contemporary China

Abstract This paper investigates women's learning experiences in the Confucian tradition and the social dismay and stigma associated with them. Despite being considered a meta-virtue in the Confucian tradition, learning becomes rather complex when women are the learners. It is viewed by learned women as a curse rather than a blessing in pre-modern China; it is associated with the stigma of “leftover women” and “the third sex” in contemporary China. Based on an examination of works written by women thinkers, I argue that the asymmetry in social recognition for men's and women's learning is rooted in the social and family structure of nei (in) and wai (out), which does not assign sufficient cultural and moral significance to learning achieved in the nei domain nor permit its continuous and accumulative existence. I propose two preliminary steps to rectify the issue of the lack of social and moral recognition of women's learning: first, a reforming of the nei and wai structure to allow assigning more moral, cultural, and normative significance to affairs in the nei domain. Second, re-examine and utilize classical Confucian texts such as the Mencius and later works by women writers to support and guide such reformations.

Abstract PO4-09-08: Perceptions and Experiences of Black Women on Family History Sharing and Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Abstract Black women experience significant disparities in morbidity and mortality related to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). Early identification of women with HBOC is essential for proactive screening and timely diagnosis. However, evidence suggests that Black women receive genetic testing for HBOC at lower rates than their White counterparts. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 107 Black women with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer, to understand their perceptions of their familial risk of HBOC and interest in genetic testing. In phase 1 of this study, participants were recruited from the networks of patient support organizations and historically Black sororities representing mostly highly educated and well insured patients. In phase 2, participants were recruited from a family medicine safety net clinic in Jacksonville, FL for socioeconomic diversity. Participants in both cohorts frequently expressed a lack of awareness about their family cancer history and identified many barriers to family disclosure of a cancer diagnosis. These include a culture of silence around medical issues and a belief that personal difficulties should be kept to oneself. Practical and cultural barriers to family history sharing were magnified among those with lower socioeconomic status. Many participants in both cohorts indicated a strong desire to understand their own risk of HBOC. They also expressed interested in genetic testing to proactively mitigate risk to themselves and future generations. Understanding of the potential relevance of HBOC testing to one’s personal health and post-test actionability was variable across both groups, although perceptions of genetic testing were generally favorable. These findings suggest that culturally tailored educational materials and alternative clinical modalities to collect family health history may be beneficial to improve timely identification of Black women who meet NCCN Guidelines for HBOC testing. Specifically, greater attention should be given to addressing barriers that led to underestimation of HBOC risk among patients experiencing disparities driven by adverse social determinants of health. Citation Format: Kirsten Riggan, Jane Yap, Ewan Cobran, Michele Halyard, Sarah James, Marion Kelly, Daphne Phillips, Megan Allyse. Perceptions and Experiences of Black Women on Family History Sharing and Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-09-08.

Abstract PO2-10-02: 'Sharing Our Own Experience': A Qualitative Study of Black Women Diagnosed with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Abstract Introduction: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that is disproportionately prevalent among U.S. Black women. Black women diagnosed with TNBC are less likely to receive the primary treatment options for TNBC, and more likely to die from the disease compared to white patients with the same diagnosis. Given TNBC’s impact on Black women, there is an urgent need to better understand their needs for information and support and any unique barriers to care they may face. Thus, this study explored the perspectives, needs, and lived experiences of Black women diagnosed with TNBC. Methods: Our study was guided by the transformative paradigm and used a multi-method approach. Study-eligible participants self-identified as: a) Black or African American; b) 18 years or older; c) being diagnosed with TNBC within the previous 5-7 years; d) receiving TNBC treatment in the U.S.; and e) English-speaking. From August-October 2022, SHARE Cancer Support (a national nonprofit focused on cancer) and 15 partner organizations used social media and listservs to recruit potential participants from their constituencies to complete a quantitative survey (n=49). From the survey participants, a stratified, purposeful sample of 20 Black women diagnosed with TNBC completed in-depth interviews from November 2022-February 2023. Two Black women researchers conducted virtual interviews with the participants via Zoom. The research team performed thematic analysis on the professionally transcribed data using NVivo 12. A Black Feminist lens was used to analyze codes and interpret emerging themes present across the interviews. The University of South Carolina's Institutional Review Board approved this study. Results: About half of those interviewed were between 35 and 44 years old, had a bachelor's degree or higher, and their annual household income ranged from less than $25,000 to $175,000. Eight major themes emerged from the personal stories of Black women diagnosed with TNBC. From diagnosis to survivorship, Black women discussed the importance of advocacy, including self-advocacy, others advocating on their behalf, and being motivated to become an advocate for others. The participants shared the significance of their identity as Black women and desired that cancer care team members acknowledge their identity and subsequently culturally tailor their care needs. Some participants also noted instances of racism and discrimination that occurred during their TNBC diagnosis or treatment experience. Participants overwhelmingly stressed the vital nature of having “someone who looks like me” to inform them about treatment options and existing resources, as well as to provide emotional support through their shared lived experiences with TNBC. Additionally, participants recognized the importance of embracing the uncertain yet inevitable future. They also emphasized that mental health support is not uniformly provided in care settings but should be an essential component of the TNBC treatment plan. Having support was essential to all the women, but they noted that support can look different for everyone and many existing support resources need to be improved. The themes were adapted into a list of recommended action steps for support organizations, clinical care team members, and TNBC patients to help improve the quality of life for Black women diagnosed with TNBC. Conclusions: The lived experiences of Black women diagnosed with TNBC can serve as a meaningful source of data and provide solutions to addressing persistent health disparities these women face. Findings from this study can inform future research and clinical practice about how to support the holistic needs of Black women diagnosed with TNBC. Recommendations for improving the quality of life for Black women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. The 8 major themes that emerged in the qualitative study were adapted into a list of actionable recommendations for key interest groups to improve the lives of Black women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. Citation Format: Tisha Felder, Lucy Ingram, Megan Austin, Victoria Burke, Stephanie Poland, Megan-Claire Chase, Christine Benjamin. 'Sharing Our Own Experience': A Qualitative Study of Black Women Diagnosed with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-10-02.

Abstract PO2-05-10: 'I am Still Alive': An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Older Women Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Abstract Background: Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) is cancer that has spread from the primary organ (breast) to other distant organs such as bone, spine, lungs, brain, and liver. It is a treatable but incurable cancer. While the burden of mBC is devastating to all patients, older mBC patients have poorer prognoses, poor access to care and experience social isolation. This current study is aimed to explore the experiences of older women living with mBC and the impact of belonging to a peer support group (PSG) in Nigeria. Method: Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), eight women living with mBC aged 50 and above participated in the semi-structured interview. Results: Our findings showed that participants encountered psychological, physiological, and social challenges that are interrelated across four central themes: “Tormented by Pain,” “I am the One that is Going to Die,” “I am Not alone,” and “Winning the ‘war’ against mBC.” While the experiences of older women living with mBC were dominated by different levels of pain, death anxiety, stigma, and financial burden; belonging to a PSG brought participants hope, information, self-worth, and courage. Conclusion: This study has shown PSG should be an important component of cancer control. Hence, healthcare leaders should support and fund the establishment of PSG across Nigeria. Whether mBC is curable or not, the last days of older women living with mBC should be filled with dignity, peer support, and the absence of pain. Citation Format: Runcie C.W. Chidebe, Khadijat Banwo-Fatai, Agha A. Agha, Onyedikachi C. Nwakanma-Akanno, Donnette Narine, Takashi Yamashita, Alejandra Platas, Jennifer Kinney, Phyllis Cummins, Fatima Cardoso. 'I am Still Alive': An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Older Women Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-05-10.

Experiences of Women With Medical Abortion Care Reflected in Social Media (VEILLE Study): Noninterventional Retrospective Exploratory Infodemiology Study.

Abortion (also known as termination of pregnancy) is an essential element of women's reproductive health care. Feedback from women who underwent medical termination of pregnancy about their experience is crucial to help practitioners identify women's needs and develop necessary tools to improve the abortion care process. However, the collection of this feedback is quite challenging. Social media offer anonymity for women who share their abortion experience. This exploratory infodemiology study aimed to analyze, through French social media posts, personal medical symptoms and the different experiences and information dynamics associated with the medical abortion process. A retrospective study was performed by analyzing posts geolocated in France and published from January 1, 2017, to November 30, 2021. Posts were extracted from all French-language general and specialized publicly available web forums using specific keywords. Extracted messages were cleaned and pseudonymized. Automatic natural language processing methods were used to identify posts from women having experienced medical abortion. Biterm topic modeling was used to identify the main discussion themes and the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities was used to identify medical terms. Encountered difficulties were explored using qualitative research methods until the saturation of concepts was reached. Analysis of 5398 identified posts (3409 users) led to the identification of 9 major topics: personal experience (n=2413 posts, 44.7%), community support (n=1058, 19.6%), pain and bleeding (n=797, 14.8%), psychological experience (n=760, 14.1%), questioned efficacy (n=410, 7.6%), social pressure (n=373, 6.9%), positive experiences (n=257, 4.8%), menstrual cycle disorders (n=107, 2%), and reported inefficacy (n=104, 1.9%). Pain, which was mentioned in 1627 (30.1%) of the 5398 posts by 1024 (30.0%) of the 3409 users, was the most frequently reported medical term. Pain was considered severe to unbearable in 24.5% of the cases (399 of the 1627 posts). Lack of information was the most frequently reported difficulty during and after the process. Our findings suggest that French women used social media to share their experiences, offer and find support, and provide and receive information regarding medical abortion. Infodemiology appears to be a useful tool to obtain women's feedback, therefore offering the opportunity to enhance care in women undergoing medical abortion.

Gendering Toxic Contamination: Toxic Risks, Bodies, and Pregnancies in Gold Mining and Coca Farming Communities in the Bajo Cauca Region

AbstractThis paper investigates women's everyday reproductive struggles in contexts of toxic contamination and the tensions emerging between toxic exposure and care in women's experiences of motherhood. While scientific framings of reproductive disruptions understand social identities as pre‐existing the experience of toxic risks, in this paper I argue that, in toxic territories, the categories of “contaminating” and “contaminated” actors interact with other categories of identity, such as gender and race, shaping social relations. Drawing on 13 months of ethnographic fieldwork conducted in the Bajo Cauca region among gold mining and coca farming communities, I investigate the everyday processes of gendered subject formation that unfold in toxic territories and the emergence of “faulty” gendered identities for rural mothers. Building on scholarship in feminist geography and Latin American feminist science and technology studies, I argue that ineffective forms of integration of gender in the institutional debate on toxic contamination reproduce, rather than challenge, the invisibility of rural women before the state.

“A saint, a heroine, and a town”: The incarnation of “rose” and poetics of resistance in Edwidge Danticat's Claire of the Sea Light

AbstractEdwidge Danticat in her novel Claire of the Sea Light (2013) delineates a group of determined women who actively challenge the patriarchal norms prevalent in Haiti. This article conducts a thorough textual analysis focusing on the imagery of the “rose” and its intricate connections with women in the narrative. Through the elaborate naming of Ville Rose, the incarnation of rose as female figures in the novel, as well as the resistance and resilience that rose represents in the female genealogy, Danticat places women at the center of the stage, reclaiming the often neglected, silenced, and marginalized roles of women in Haitian history. This article argues that by foregrounding the unique perspective and experience of Haitian women, Danticat questions the patriarchal hegemonic discourse, reformulates the female discursive system, and reshapes the male‐dominated Haitian literary tradition. This exploration of her poetics of resistance not only contributes to the understanding of Haitian (women's) literature and Caribbean diasporic studies but also provides a new perspective for plant studies within the realm of literature.

Understanding health education needs of pregnant women in China during public health emergencies: a qualitative study amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundPublic health emergencies impose unique challenges on pregnant women, affecting their physiological, psychological, and social wellbeing. This study, focusing on the context of the corona virus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in China, aims to comprehensively explore the experiences of pregnant women amidst diverse public health crises. Herein, we investigate the health education needs of pregnant Chinese women in regard to public health emergencies to provide a scientific foundation for the development of targeted health education strategies.ObjectiveThe study described in this article aims to explore the health education needs of pregnant Chinese women in the context of public health emergencies specifying the types of emergencies of pandemics and to provide a scientific basis for targeted health education interventions.MethodsThirteen pregnant women were purposively selected, and the rationale for this sample size lies in the qualitative nature of the study, seeking in-depth insights rather than generalizability. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews, and the Colaizzi, which is a structured qualitative technique used to extract, interpret, and organize significant statements from participant descriptions into themes, providing a comprehensive understanding of their lived experiences.ResultsThe analysis yielded six prominent themes encompassing the following areas: I. Personal protection and vaccine safety; II. Knowledge of maternal health; III. Knowledge of fetal health; IV. Knowledge of childbirth; V. Knowledge of postpartum recovery; and VI. Knowledge sources of health education for pregnant women and their expectations of healthcare providers. Theme I was analyzed with two sub-themes (needs for personal protection knowledge, vaccine safety knowledge needs); Theme II was analyzed with three sub-themes (nutrition and diet, exercise and rest, sexual life); Theme III was analyzed with three sub-themes (medications and hazardous substances, pregnancy check-ups, and fetal movement monitoring); Theme IV was analyzed with three sub-themes (family accompaniment, analgesia in childbirth, and choice of mode of delivery); Theme V was analyzed with one sub-theme (knowledge of postnatal recovery); Theme VI was analyzed with one sub-theme (expectations of Healthcare providers). Sub-themes within each main theme were identified, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by pregnant women during public health emergencies. The interrelation between sub-themes and main themes contributes to a holistic portrayal of their experiences.ConclusionThe study emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to tailor health education for pregnant women during emergencies, highlighting the role of the Internet in improving information dissemination. It recommends actionable strategies for effective health communication, ensuring these women receive comprehensive support through digital platforms for better health outcomes during public health crises.

Abstract PO5-11-05: Fertility, sexuality and other unmet needs of young breast cancer survivor during and at the end of treatment in France: a national qualitative study by the French Network of Cancer Registries (FRANCIM)

Abstract Introduction In recent decades, the living conditions of breast cancer (BC) survivors have received particular attention, especially among the youngest who face problems related to fertility and sexuality. Integrating women's needs into medical decisions is becoming increasingly essential for high-quality care. This study aimed to describe and understand the experiences of young women after BC, examined the scope and content of information transmitted on fertility and sexuality during routine appointments during the management of BC, and identify unmet support needs. Methods This study follows on from a quantitative study using self-questionnaires, in which patients met the following inclusion criteria (Non-metastatic invasive BC women diagnosed from 2009 to 2016, aged ≤ 40 years at diagnosis were identified through the FRANCIM Network). Interviews were conducted with a sample of 29 women drawn at random from among eligible women who completed the self-questionnaires in the quantitative study. The sample were stratified by age, department, socio-professional category and socio-economic level. Individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted either by videoconference or face-to-face, in patient's homes or in any other location of their choice during October to December 2022. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Results Findings revealed that during treatments, women would like physicians (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, gynecologist, etc.) to be more empathetic, more humane, and show tact and attentiveness when announcing the disease and treatments during the course of care. They would like to be better informed about the post-treatment side effects and better prepared by the physicians, for the feeling of abandonment felt in the aftermath of cancer due to the absence of medical appointments. The mains unmet needs of BC survivors were more numerous at the end of the treatments. In fact they more deplore the lack of coverage and reimbursement of aesthetic care and paramedical care essential to women to compensate for the persistent side effects and the repercussions of the disease and post-cancer treatments (eg: a more aesthetic and better reimbursed breast reconstruction at the end of the treatments, support by psychologists, etc.). With regard to sexuality, in the absence of systematic information for patients on the side effects of treatments on sexuality at diagnosis, it would be desirable to ask the woman if she would like to be informed. In addition, psychological support for the couple during and after treatment in terms of sexuality is necessary to avoid divorce and separation. In terms of fertility, there is a lack of systematic information for young women on the side effects of treatment on fertility, as well as questioning by physicians about any pregnancy plans women may have at the time of diagnosis. The introduction of fertility preservation with the possibility of it being systematically offered to all young women at diagnosis is important (or, failing that, the subject should be discussed more with the women), as it represents a gap in support). For women who had a pregnancy plan at diagnosis, the majority felt a lack of listening by doctors and adaptation of care to their pregnancy plan at diagnosis. Conclusions This study showed that, despite the high quality of care provided to young women diagnosed with BC in France, they felt they had unmet needs in terms of sexuality, fertility and access to paramedical care at the end of treatment. Indeed, these women face psychological suffering that they would like physicians to see beyond their physical suffering based on their experience. The results of this study could help public authorities and physicians improve care and life after cancer for young women diagnosed with BC. Citation Format: Emerline Assogba, Agnès Dumas, Cynthia Morgny, Myriam Borel, Véronique Brun, Nicolas Nicolas Meunier-Beillard, Ariane Mamguem, Charles Coutant, Isabelle Desmoulins, Sandrine Dabakuyo. Fertility, sexuality and other unmet needs of young breast cancer survivor during and at the end of treatment in France: a national qualitative study by the French Network of Cancer Registries (FRANCIM) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-11-05.

Using a novel approach to explore women's caesarean birth experience

How a woman experiences birth is influenced by how she is treated, and who has power and control in the birthing environment. Focus on ‘delivery’ of an infant disregards the transformative event for the woman, with poorer physical and psychological outcomes. New evidence is needed to understand how to prevent trauma and improve maternal wellbeing. This paper presents a feminist methodology to view the lived experience of caesarean birth. Feminist birthing theories integrated with a phenomenological perspective provide insight for those working in maternity care and create a novel framework for researchers considering the position of women in a medicalised healthcare system. Feminist phenomenology with a theoretical feminist overlay refreshes the methodological framework for a new understanding of how this perinatal event impacts women.

Abstract PO3-12-01: Breastfeeding After Breast Cancer

Abstract Breast cancer (BC) in young women (< 40 years of age) accounts for only 6-8% of all breast cancers, but it is the most common oncological disease in the reproductive age group. For many young patients, it is important to have children after breast cancer treatment. The results of retrospective studies and the POSITIVE trial indicate that pregnancy and childbirth do not increase the risk of BC recurrence. While we have more data on the course of pregnancy, maternal and child health, limited information is available about breastfeeding experiences in BC survivors. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the breastfeeding experiences of women who had previously been treated for breast cancer. Method: The study took the form of a survey. A questionnaire regarding diagnosis, treatment, pregnancy, and breastfeeding was sent to women associated with patient organizations. Data on cancer and treatment were obtained from the patients. Results: We received 44 completed questionnaires. The mean age of the patients at diagnosis was 30 years (23-35). The majority of patients underwent mastectomy (59%), and almost all patients received chemotherapy (91%). Hormonal treatment was used in 61% of cases, and trastuzumab in 41%. The average time from diagnosis to pregnancy was 44.6 months (0-120). Most babies were born at term (86.4%), with an average birth weight of 3444.4 grams (2360-4220). Out of the 44 patients, 33 breastfed their babies. In 80% of women, milk appeared in the healthy breast, and in every fourth patient after conserving treatment. 20% of these patients attempted to breastfeed with the affected breast, but these attempts failed after a few days. Among the patients who breastfed with the healthy breast, 27% breastfed for 3 to 6 months, 24% for 6 to 12 months, and 30% for more than a year (12% for more than 2 years). Babies were gaining weight normally, but 65% of mothers opted for additional formula feeding. Patients who did not start breastfeeding cited concern for the proper development of their children and fear of recurrence of the disease as the main reasons. Two patients were unable to breastfeed because they had to resume adjuvant hormonal treatment that had been interrupted in order to become pregnant and deliver a child. Shockingly, 36% of patients did not receive sufficient information on the possibility of breastfeeding after breast cancer treatment, and only 23 patients (52%) had meetings with a lactation consultant after giving birth. Conclusions: Women who give birth after breast cancer treatment should be informed about the possibility of breastfeeding. They should also be aware that one breast can produce enough milk for their baby, and they should have access to lactation consultants for guidance and support. Citation Format: Maria Litwiniuk, Mikołaj Bartoszkiewicz, Joanna Kufel-Grabowska. Breastfeeding After Breast Cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-12-01.

Abstract PO4-23-06: Outcomes and experiences of women denied immediate breast REconstruction after maSTectOmy for bREast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic - The RESTORE C19 Study

Abstract Introduction 40% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK each year undergo mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) is routinely offered to improve quality of life. During COVID19, this offer was withdrawn to prioritise frontline and emergency services. The RESTORE C19 study aimed to use mixed methods to explore the outcomes, lived experiences and views of women denied IBR during the pandemic. Methods Women not offered IBR between March & October 2020, were identified via B-Map-C, a UK prospective multicentre cohort study documenting changes in breast cancer treatment decisions during the pandemic. All patients were followed up between December 2021 & July 2022 (21-28 months following mastectomy) to explore their ongoing management including whether they had undergone, were awaiting, or had decided against delayed breast reconstruction (DBR) and the procedures performed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise results. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken to explore the experiences of this group in more depth. Women were purposively sampled based on treatment centre, age, decision regarding DBR, and procedure performed. A topic guide was developed to explore experiences of breast cancer care; feelings about not having been offered IBR and factors influencing subsequent surgical decision-making. Interviews were transcribed in full and analysed thematically, with data collection and analysis undertaken concurrently and iteratively until saturation was achieved. Full ethical approval was obtained: IRAS 302580, Wales REC 4 21/WA/0347. Results Some 366 women were identified as not having been offered IBR in the B-MaP-C study for whom follow up data was available for 311 (85.0%) from 55 centres. The median age was 50 (range 27-83 years). Most women presented with symptomatic breast cancer (n=239, 76.8%), were fit with no significant comorbidities, had T1 or 2 tumours (n=215, 69.1%) and were node negative (n=186, 59.6%). Almost a fifth (n=58, 18.6%) of women had decided against breast reconstruction completely. Of the remainder, just under 60% (n=149/253), had attended a surgical consultation to discuss DBR and only a third (n=91/253, 36%) had been referred to plastic surgical services to discuss autologous procedures. Only 21 women (6.8%) had received DBR; (16 free flaps, 4 implants, 1 pedicled flap+/-implant). Interviews were performed with 18 women from 5 centres with a median age of 49 years (range 34-67): n=5 women had either received/were awaiting DBR; n=4 had undergone/were awaiting contralateral symmetrising mastectomy and n=9 had decided against/were undecided about further surgery. Whilst all women reported feeling ‘grateful’ for their breast cancer treatment, some felt ‘abandoned’ by healthcare professionals, others that they needed to chase breast surgical teams for care, advice, and support. Partners were also impacted by their experiences with some women describing lasting effects on their relationships. Many women described how their desire for symmetry, either by breast reconstruction or symmetrising mastectomy, had “paled into insignificance” in the months and years following treatment. Conclusions The impact of COVID19 continues to be felt by women treated for breast cancer in the UK. Most women not offered IBR are either still awaiting DBR almost three years after their initial mastectomy or have decided against further surgery. The interviews highlight the trauma many women experienced receiving breast cancer treatment during the pandemic and ongoing issues that, for some, are yet to be fully addressed. There is a need for individualised support to provide women with equitable and timely access to DBR and/or symmetrising mastectomy depending on patient preference to help them move on with their lives. Citation Format: Katherine Fairhurst, Rajiv Dave, Baek Kim, Rachel O'Connell, Raghavan Vidya, P.G. Roy, Stuart McIntosh, Patricia Fairbrother, Jo Skillman, Leila Rooshenas, Shelley Potter. Outcomes and experiences of women denied immediate breast REconstruction after maSTectOmy for bREast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic - The RESTORE C19 Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-23-06.

The pioneers of Vietnam’s epidemiological transition: an ethnographic study of pregnant women’s experiences of gestational diabetes

ABSTRACT Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an abnormal glucose metabolism diagnosed during pregnancy that can have serious adverse consequences for mother and child. GDM is an exceptional health condition, as its management serves not only as treatment but also as prevention, reducing the risk of future diabetes in mother and child. Objectives This qualitative study aimed to explore how pregnant women experience and respond to GDM, focusing particularly on the role of the family environment in shaping women’s experiences. Methods The research was carried out in Vietnam’s Thái Bình province in April–May 2023. We conducted in-depth ethnographic interviews with 21 women with GDM, visiting them in their homes. Our theoretical starting point was phenomenological anthropology, and the data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results At the centre of women’s experiences was the contrast between GDM as a biomedical and a social condition. Whereas GDM was biomedically diagnosed and managed in the healthcare system, it was often deemed insignificant or non-existent by family members. This made GDM a biomedically present but socially absent health condition. This paradox posed challenges to women’s GDM self-care, placing them in pioneering social positions. Conclusions The biomedical presence yet social absence of GDM turned women into pioneers at biomedical, digital, epidemiological, and family frontiers. This article calls for appreciation of pregnant women’s pioneering roles and for health systems action to involve women and families in the development of GDM policies and programmes at a time of sweeping global health changes.

The Relationship between Sport and Stress in Medical Faculty Student Students Malang Muhammadiyah University

Medical students are prone to experiencing stress during the lecture period due to the demands of the learning process. Women experience stress more easily than men due to a higher body response to stress. Exercise is known to help reduce stress because it stimulates the release of endorphins in the body. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a relationship between sports activity and stress in female students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Muhammadiyah Malang. The research was conducted in January 2021 with a sample of 127 people and was taken using the technique of purposive sampling, that is, female students who are sampled must comply with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data was collected using a questionnaire (Godin-Shepard). Leisure Time Physical Activity and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (THAT)-21 The results of data analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test show a value of p = 0.614 (p > 0.05), which indicates that there is no relationship between sports activity and stress levels in female students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Muhammadiyah Malang