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.