Factors influencing posttraumatic growth of gynecologic oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors impacting the posttraumatic growth (PTG) factors during chemotherapy in gynecologic oncology patients. Method: The data were collected at six hospitals at a university hospital, general hospital, women's hospital, and 3 oncology hospitals in D metropolitan city. The participants of the study were 135 female patients undergoing chemotherapy for their gynecologic oncology. To identify the factors that influence PTG, we used the questionnaires for the family support, sexual distress, health promoting behavior, and PTG. Results: There was a significant positive correlation between family support and health promoting behavior and PTG. There was significant negative correlation between sexual distress and PTG. Factors impacting the PTG of gynecologic oncology women undergoing chemotherapy were age, recurrence, family support, sexual distress, and health promoting behavior. These factors accounted for 47.0% of PTG. Conclusion: It is necessary to develop and apply programs that include sexual distress management education, and health promotion with families. PTG programs for gynecologic oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy should be approached considering these results.