Toward a theoretical understanding of young female cancer survivors' decision-making about family-building post-treatment.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Family-building after gonadotoxic treatment often requires in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, or adoption, with associated challenges such as uncertain likelihood of success, high costs, and complicated laws regulating surrogacy and adoption. This study examined adolescent and young adult female (AYA-F) survivors' experiences and decision-making related to family-building after cancer.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews explored fertility and family-building themes (N = 25). Based on an a priori conceptual model, hypothesis coding and grounded theory coding methods guided qualitative analysis.

Results

Participants averaged 29 years old (SD = 6.2) were mostly White and educated. Four major themes were identified: sources of uncertainty, cognitive and emotional

SUBMITTER: Benedict C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7384920 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature