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Journal of Cancer Survivorship

Published in:

01-06-2012

How do you feel about fertility and parenthood? The voices of young female cancer survivors

Authors: Jessica R. Gorman, Samantha Bailey, John P. Pierce, H. Irene Su

Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship | Issue 2/2012

Abstract

Purpose

Young adult cancer survivors are often unaware of their fertility status and uninformed regarding their fertility and fertility preservation options. This qualitative research study explores the fertility and parenthood concerns of reproductive-age female cancer survivors and how they make parenthood decisions.

Methods

Population- and clinic-based recruitment methods were used to identify a diverse group of survivors between the ages of 18 and 34 years. Our final sample size included 22 participants who attended one of seven focus groups. We used cross-case, inductive analysis to identify themes.

Results

The following main themes were identified: (1) A hopeful but worried approach to fertility and parenthood, (2) Frustration with a lack of choice or control over fertility, (3) Young survivors want information about their fertility, (4) Young survivors want better continuity of care in survivorship, (5) Cancer diagnosis and related fertility problems introduce relationship challenges, and (6) Decisions about parenthood are complicated.

Conclusions

The diverse group of young cancer survivors in this study identified several common needs and concerns regarding fertility and parenthood. This study illustrates that young survivors could benefit from improved information regarding their fertility and parenthood options throughout survivorship, better coordination of medical care, and support navigating many emotional and practical issues that arise when considering their reproductive and parenthood options.

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Title: How do you feel about fertility and parenthood? The voices of young female cancer survivors
Authors: Jessica R. Gorman
Samantha Bailey
John P. Pierce
H. Irene Su
Publication date: 01-06-2012
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship / Issue 2/2012
Print ISSN: 1932-2259
Electronic ISSN: 1932-2267
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-011-0211-9

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