Research output: Thesis › Doctoral Thesis
Research output: Thesis › Doctoral Thesis
}
TY - BOOK
T1 - Qualitative experiences of young BRCA carriers
T2 - family planning and bilateral prophylactic mastectomy
AU - Gardner, Rebecca
PY - 2025
Y1 - 2025
N2 - This thesis explores young BRCA carriers' experiences of family planning and undergoing bilateral prophylactic mastectomy (BPM). The thesis is comprised of a systematic literature review, empirical research and critical appraisal of the research.The systematic literature review aimed to synthesise qualitative research on men and women’s experiences of family planning as a BRCA carrier. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the results of 25 papers. Three themes were developed: ‘The decision to have children or not (and how)’; ‘A carefully balanced plan: Children, surgery and cancer’; and ‘Support versus judgement during family planning’. These findings highlighted the emotive and dynamic nature of family planning, and the importance of BRCA carrier’s being offered ongoing professional support to make informed decisions. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.The empirical research aimed to explore the experiences of undergoing BPM at a young age (18-26 years). Seven women completed semi-structured interviews and data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four themes were identified: ‘Growing up with the pain of BC: Breaking the trauma cycle’; ‘Young and carefree: Choosing the most convenient time for BPM’; ‘Perceived ageism and disempowerment by the healthcare system’; and ‘“It is 100% worth it”: Remaining anchored during the psychological rollercoaster of BPM’. This research provided an insight into young women’s decision-making, the psychological impact of BPM and their experiences of professionals. The findings highlighted a need for person-centred and trauma-informed care.The critical appraisal summarises the findings and clinical implications of the thesis, comments on the strengths and limitations of the methodology, and identifies areas for future research. Personal reflections are also provided on the research process including challenges, reflexivity and use of language.
AB - This thesis explores young BRCA carriers' experiences of family planning and undergoing bilateral prophylactic mastectomy (BPM). The thesis is comprised of a systematic literature review, empirical research and critical appraisal of the research.The systematic literature review aimed to synthesise qualitative research on men and women’s experiences of family planning as a BRCA carrier. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the results of 25 papers. Three themes were developed: ‘The decision to have children or not (and how)’; ‘A carefully balanced plan: Children, surgery and cancer’; and ‘Support versus judgement during family planning’. These findings highlighted the emotive and dynamic nature of family planning, and the importance of BRCA carrier’s being offered ongoing professional support to make informed decisions. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.The empirical research aimed to explore the experiences of undergoing BPM at a young age (18-26 years). Seven women completed semi-structured interviews and data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four themes were identified: ‘Growing up with the pain of BC: Breaking the trauma cycle’; ‘Young and carefree: Choosing the most convenient time for BPM’; ‘Perceived ageism and disempowerment by the healthcare system’; and ‘“It is 100% worth it”: Remaining anchored during the psychological rollercoaster of BPM’. This research provided an insight into young women’s decision-making, the psychological impact of BPM and their experiences of professionals. The findings highlighted a need for person-centred and trauma-informed care.The critical appraisal summarises the findings and clinical implications of the thesis, comments on the strengths and limitations of the methodology, and identifies areas for future research. Personal reflections are also provided on the research process including challenges, reflexivity and use of language.
U2 - 10.17635/lancaster/thesis/2892
DO - 10.17635/lancaster/thesis/2892
M3 - Doctoral Thesis
PB - Lancaster University
ER -