Breast Cancer Survivors and Fertility Preservation: Ethical and Religious Considerations

Objectives

To review religious and ethical considerations for health care professionals when discussing fertility preservation with young survivors.

Data Sources

Published research reports and articles, published guidelines, and web sites.

Conclusion

Although advances in assisted reproductive technology have increased fertility preservation options, not all treatments are acceptable or available for all young survivors.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The ongoing provision of information from health care professionals allows young survivors to make high-quality decisions about fertility across the survivorship continuum. Knowledge of the influence that religious beliefs and economics have on decisions help nurses to better understand and support patients during this difficult time.

Key Words: Breast cancer, ethics, religion, in vitro fertilization