How do couples and spouses/partners consider fertility preservation decisions during cancer treatment planning? A qualitative analysis of dyadic decision making

Abstract

Objective

This study assessed the needs and perspective of (1) couples and (2) spouses/partners when considering fertility preservation after a cancer diagnosis.

Research Approach

Semi-structured interviews explored (1) couples’ shared decision-making and (2) spouses’/partners’ individual perspectives.

Participants

Twelve female cancer survivors and their partners (spouses or domestic/romantic partners) (n = 24).

Methodological Approach

Dyadic and individual interviews were conducted using a Decisional Needs Assessment interview guide. Thematic analysis identified key themes.

Findings

Couples reported making fertility preservation decisions like other major decisions, including prioritizing mutual satisfaction. Partners also reported concerns about patients’ health, variable decision-making needs, and letting patients lead. Couples unanimously recommended fertility preservation consultations, and designing resources that provide information and assess needs for both patients and partners.

Interpretations

Patients and partners have shared and unique needs when facing fertility preservation decisions.

Implications for Psychosocial Providers or Policy

Whenever feasible, psychosocial providers should assess and address couples’ and partners’ fertility preservation decision-making needs.

Keywords:

• cancer
• decision making
• decision support techniques
• fertility preservation

Acknowledgements

We thank the couples who participated in this study and provided valuable insight about the needs for fertility preservation decision aids that support patients and their partners. We also thank the members of our stakeholder advisory group: the women and partners who generously shared their insight; Donna Bell, MSN, RN, NP-C, Pediatric Oncology; Larissa Meyer, MD, MPH, Gynecologic Oncology; Michelle Esser, JD, MBA, Young Survival Coalition; Robert Volk, PhD, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Duncan Family Institute for Cancer Prevention and Risk Assessment; and Joyce Reinecke, JD, Alliance for Fertility Preservation.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare they have no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a grant from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Duncan Family Institute for Cancer Prevention and Risk Assessment. The statements presented in this work are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center or the Duncan Family Institute for Cancer Prevention and Risk Assessment.