ArticleWomen's health (London, England)
Impacts of radiotherapy for gynaecological cancer on social, personal and sexual lives: A qualitative analysis of patient narratives.
Article in Women's health (London, England). The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundStudies that have gathered patient experiences of radiotherapy for gynaecological cancers have described anguish related to body image, lack of control, social isolation, lack of social support, mystification and self-criticism. Frequently, outward experiences of side effects are presented as 'necessary suffering' hampering opportunities to improve care and support.
objectivesThis project aimed to address gaps in the understanding of how radiotherapy impacts patient bodies and social, personal and sexual lives and to identify priorities for more patient-centred support.
designQualitative narrative study informed by feminist health activism.
methodsNarratives (written, audio-recorded or video recorded journal entries) were collected in the United Kingdom between August 2020 and September 2021. Thirty-four women who had received radiotherapy treatment for cervical, endometrial, vulval or ovarian cancer (up to 25 years previously) submitted written, audio-recorded or video-recorded accounts. Data were analysed thematically through collaborative, feminist-informed approaches.
resultsThe most prominent feature of the narratives related to patients not being listened to or not being heard. Seven principal areas for developing conversations for support were identified, which were grouped into four overarching and interlinking themes:
conclusionsRadiotherapy for gynaecological cancer can have enduring and multi-dimensional impacts that are often poorly addressed in current care models. Improving services requires embedding patient voices in care planning, prioritising dignity and addressing long-term effects through open, ongoing conversations. The findings inform practical recommendations and highlight priorities for future research and policy to embed patient perspectives in radiotherapy services.
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