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Supportive Care in Cancer

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01-06-2024 | Fertility | Review

Psychosocial experiences regarding potential fertility loss and pregnancy failure after treatment in cancer survivors of reproductive age to identify psychosocial care needs: a systematic review

Authors: Kanako Yoshida, Tomoko Hashimoto, Tomoe Koizumi, Nao Suzuki

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 6/2024

Abstract

Purpose

The challenges of fertility loss owing to cancer treatment persist long after treatment. However, psychosocial care for fertility among cancer survivors who have completed cancer treatment is insufficient. This systematic review examined psychosocial experiences related to the potential loss of fertility and unsuccessful pregnancy after treatment in cancer survivors of reproductive age to identify psychosocial care needs.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using the online databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Ichushi-Web between August and December 2022 to identify studies that addressed psychosocial experiences after fertility loss or failure to conceive among young cancer survivors. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

Forty studies were included, revealing psychosocial experiences across five categories: subjective fear of (potential) fertility loss, impact on romantic relationships, alternative methods for family building, reliance on social support, and specialized care. Only one study addressed the psychosocial aspects after complete loss of fertility in young cancer survivors.

Conclusions

The possibility and uncertainty of fertility loss led to stress and depression, loss of identity, decreased opportunities to meet a new partner, and damaged relationships established before diagnosis. The needs encompass fertility preservation, sexuality, approaches to building a family, partner communication, and other diverse needs.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Psychosocial experiences regarding potential fertility loss and pregnancy failure after treatment in cancer survivors of reproductive age to identify psychosocial care needs: a systematic review
Authors: Kanako Yoshida
Tomoko Hashimoto
Tomoe Koizumi
Nao Suzuki
Publication date: 01-06-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Fertility
Infertility
Infertility
Anxiety
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 6/2024
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-024-08544-w

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