The impact of cancer-related fertility concerns on current and future couple relationships : people with cancer and partner perspectives

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine how cancer-related fertility concerns impact on couple relationships from the perspectives of people with cancer (PWC) and partners of people with cancer. Methods: A qualitative research design was used, drawing data from open-ended responses to a survey and in-depth individual interviews. Eight hundred and seventy-eight PWC (693 women, 185 men) and 144 partners (82 women, 62 men), across a range of tumour types and age groups, completed a survey, and 78 PWC (61 women and 17 men) and 26 partners (13 women and 13 men), participated in semi-structured interviews. Results: Thematic analysis identified that many PWC and partners experience a 'double burden', manifested by cancer-related fertility concerns creating relational stress, changes to couple sexual intimacy and feelings of inadequacy when forming new relationships. However, many participants adopted strategies to facilitate coping with infertility or fertility concerns. This included acceptance of infertility and privileging of survival, focusing on relationship growth, optimism and nurturing in other ways. Conclusion: Cancer-related fertility concerns can have a significant impact on couple relationships. Psychological support from clinicians may facilitate couple coping, as well as help to address concerns about future relationships for un-partnered people with cancer.