Cryopreservation Counseling and Its Effect on Knowledge and Attitude of Young Female Cancer Patients

Abstract

Background:

Purpose: This study was conducted with the purpose of assessing the effect of cryopreservation counseling on knowledge and attitude of young female cancer patients. Methods: Research Design: A quasi-experimental design (with pre and post test).  Tools: Three instruments were used throughout the course of this study: (I) interviewing questionnaire, (II) knowledge assessment sheet and (III) attitude scale. Main results: There was a highly statistically significant difference between knowledge and attitude scores at the pre and post test. Conclusion: both study hypotheses were accepted. Young female cancer patients' score of knowledge about cryopreservation was increased after counseling as compared to before. Young female cancer patients' score of attitude about cryopreservation was increased after counseling as compared to before. Recommendations: The present study can be replicated on a large sample to act as a baseline data for pre-treatment program for raising awareness about fertility preservation. Female with cancer should be managed through a multidisciplinary approach and should receive counseling from an obstetrician and gynecologist about possible effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Keywords: cryopreservation, counseling, knowledge, attitude and cancer patients.