The Decision-Making Process regarding Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation in Girls with Turner Syndrome by Patients, Parents, and Healthcare Providers: A Mixed-Methods Study.

INTRODUCTION

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) has proven to be effective in other patient groups, but the effectiveness in girls with Turner syndrome (TS) is still unclear. Guidelines for counselling about OTC in TS are lacking. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the experiences of patients, parents, and healthcare providers with the decision-making process regarding OTC in girls with TS.

METHODS

Within a year after counselling, a survey was sent to 132 girls with TS and their parents. Furthermore, focus groups were conducted with (1) gynaecologists with subspeciality reproductive medicine, (2) paediatric endocrinologists, (3) parents of girls aged 2-12, and (4) parents of girls aged 13-18. Transcripts were analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS

The response rate of the survey was 45%. Of the survey respondents, 90% appreciated counselling regarding their future parenting options and considered it an addition to existing healthcare. Girls with TS and their parents indicated that the option of OTC raised hope for future genetic offspring and instantly made them feel that their only option was to seize this opportunity. Gynaecologists and paediatricians found it challenging to truly make families grasp a realistic perspective of OTC in girls with TS.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Offering young girls with TS the possibility of fertility preservation in an experimental setting raised high hopes and led to challenges for healthcare providers in ensuring a considered decision. The appropriate moment for counselling should be tailored to the individual and discussed with patient, parents, and paediatrician.