Motherhood during or after breast cancer diagnosis: A qualitative study

• DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13214
• Publication Date: 2020-01-06T14:38:07Z
• Authors: Flavia Faccio; Eleonora Mascheroni; Chiara Ionio; Gabriella Pravettoni; Fedro Alessandro ...; Camilla Pisoni; Chiara Cassani; Sara Zambelli; Anna Zilioli; Giuseppe Nastasi; Nicola Giuntini; Lucia Bonassi
• Keywords: Worry; Thematic Analysis

Objective Little is known about the process of becoming a mother in women who experienced breast cancer diagnosis (BC). In this qualitative study, we investigated maternal representations pregnant with experience BC and those no oncological history. Methods A total 38 were recruited, 19 had not. To explore representations, semi-structured interviews conducted analysed through thematic analysis. Results Four main themes identified: fears worries, meaning motherhood, mother–foetus relationship partner support. Across themes, differences between primiparous multiparous are reported. Women gestational (GBC) described fear for their own child's survival. previous recall contrasting emotions. All perceived breastfeeding as fundamental inability to do so provoked worry. Relationship was considered central, while healthy projected towards future triadic relationship. Conclusions Finding mental space during pregnancy representation child could be hard GBC. Dissimilarities motherhood patients provide insight into psychological aspects that should taken account clinical practice.