The experience of female oncological patients and fertility preservation: A phenomenology study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyse the experience of fertility preservation among female oncological patients.

METHODS: A phenomenological study was conducted in an Assisted Human Reproduction Unit. The sample was composed of 14 females of reproductive age diagnosed with a cancer that may affect reproductive function, who had undergone a fertility preservation procedure. In-depth interviews were carried out, and the transcripts were entred into the Atlas.ti.v.8.2.3 qualitative analysis software package. The steps proposed by Taylor-Bogdan were followed in the analysis of the data.

RESULTS: Four thematic categories emerged in relation to the experience with the fertility preservation process: interruption of life plans and changes in the person; knowledge about fertility preservation options, reproductive capacity and impact because of the possible loss; dyadic relationshipsand social representations of fertility.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients suffer from difficulties when making decisions about fertility whilst dealing with a cancer diagnosis. They need adequate information and support from health professionals. Despite increasing awareness of fertility preservation, there is a lack of knowledge regarding patients' experiences and needs related to this process.