97. Experiences of young girls and women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation: a systematic review and thematic synthesis

Introduction and aim: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is an emerging fertility preservation method. Thousands of individuals suffering from cancer or benign gynaecological conditions have undergone this procedure worldwide. OTC is considered experimental in most countries. However, many policy makers are recognising the benefits of using this OTC more routinely. Information on patient experience of OTC is limited, therefore this review explored the experiences of individuals who underwent or considered OTC. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and thematic analysis of qualitative studies, which reported experiences of individuals offered OTC as a fertility or hormonal preservation method. Major electronic databases were searched from 1946 to May 2020. The main outcome measures included: understanding experiences of women who have considered or undergone OTC, reasons why women underwent or considered OTC and whether participants were provided with adequate information about it. Results: We identified and screened 19 studies, from which four studies were included in the review. The studies provided 144 verbatim quotations from 85 participants. Four themes associated with participant experiences were identified: OTC was found to be educational, emotional, involving complex decision-making and helped prepare them for long-term consequences of potentially losing their fertility and hormonal function. Additionally, practical aspects of the procedure including costs and the invasive nature were highlighted. Conclusions: Women and young girls with cancer are often involved in making time-sensitive decisions regarding whether or not to undergo OTC procedure. The provision of information about the procedure and implications appears not to be met. It is evident that health care professionals, who these young girls and women rely on to support decision making should provide them with sufficient information. This should involve clear education about the technical aspects of the procedure as well as its future implications related to their reproductive as well as endocrine function.