Pediatric Oncology Providers' Perceptions of Fertility Preservation in Adolescent and Young Women with Cancer

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the present study was to assess providers' perceptions of fertility preservation (FP) options for female cancer patients and factors that influence decision making. Pediatric Physician and Nurse Oncologists (N = 167) were recruited from the Children's Oncology Group Hospitals to complete an online survey. Results showed that providers were comfortable discussing FP options and were able to identify experimental FP options and infertility risk of five cancers. Disease progression was the most influential factor in considering FP; survival and cost were least influential. Despite providers' self-reported comfort, barriers exist to FP for female patients. Improvements in multidisciplinary communication and access to reproductive specialists are needed to improve uptake.

Keywords:

• adolescents
• oncology
• fertility preservation
• infertility
• late effects
• survivorship

View correction statement:

Erratum