Communication between oncofertility providers and patients

Abstract

Although they are faced with the stresses inherent in a new cancer diagnosis, reproductive-age cancer patients (and the parents of prepubertal cancer patients) list future fertility as one of their most important concerns. Unfortunately, very few patients have the opportunity to discuss fertility issues with their oncologist or are referred to a reproductive specialist at or soon after their initial cancer diagnosis. Both provider- and patient-related issues contribute to the poor communication of fertility issues, including lack of knowledge of the impact of cancer therapies on fertility and lack of resources for referring patients to reproductive specialists. It is clear that discussions about fertility preservation are of most benefit when they occur as early as possible after the cancer diagnosis. Increasing providers' awareness of current guidelines regarding fertility preservation for cancer patients, as well as the patient resources that are available, can facilitate timely referral of patients to a consultation with a reproductive specialist. Patients may benefit from educational resources on basic concepts and issues in reproduction and fertility that they can access before their visit to the reproductive specialist.