What are women's experiences of gestational breast cancer, and how do they describe their interactions with the healthcare system? An exploratory study.

Background: Gestational breast cancer (GBC) is defined as a breast cancer diagnosis during pregnancy or within 12 months post-partum. The incidence of GBC varies between 1:1000 and 1:3000 pregnancies. Breast cancer is the most frequent malignant tumour in women and the leading cause of cancer-related female mortality worldwide.

Objectives: The main objective of this study was to better understand the experiences of women diagnosed with GBC and their interactions with the healthcare system. By exploring their perspectives, the study aimed to contribute to further research and knowledge to improve care and outcomes for these women.

Design: A qualitative exploratory study.

Methods: The study involved one-on-one semi-structured interviews conducted in Australia between November 2021 and June 2022. Participants were women diagnosed with GBC. Interviews were recorded digitally, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically following Braun and Clarke's (2006) six steps.

Results: Six women diagnosed with GBC participated in the study. Analysis determined three central themes. First: My happiness was stolen. Upon receiving a GBC diagnosis, women described feeling terrified, overwhelmed, concerned for their baby, distressed, yet feeling fortunate at the same time. Second: It really knocked me around. Women expressed their unique circumstances and difficulties in comprehending having a cancer diagnosis while being pregnant, the different treatment modalities, limited information on surgical and fertility preservation options, and being unprepared for the side effects. Third: I wanted control; the importance of being able to take charge of their circumstances and decision-making was important to these women, especially as options were frequently restricted due to the urgency to commence treatment.

Conclusion: The findings provide an understanding of the unique challenges of women diagnosed with GBC. Empowering women through personalised knowledge about their disease, understanding their needs, discussing surgical options, addressing fertility preservation, and providing psychological support is essential.