Exploring oncologists’ and oncology nurse practitioners’ contraceptive recommendations, knowledge, and practices for women with cancer
Contraception
Awarded 2012
Complex Family Planning Fellowship Research
Sloane York, MD
Northwestern University
$17,690

This study’s primary objective is to survey medical and pediatric oncologists and oncology nurse practitioners to determine if they recommend contraception around the time of cancer diagnosis or treatment. Typical practice patterns, recommendations, and contraceptive knowledge will be explored in this survey. We hypothesize oncologists/oncology nurse practitioners do not regularly address contraception with their adolescent and young adult female patients and, therefore, do not routinely refer these patients for contraception. Additionally, we expect that oncologists will be unfamiliar with the best contraceptive practices for these medically complicated patients. With this knowledge, we can direct further collaboration between gynecologists and oncologists or improve education for physicians and their patients on contraception to improve pre-conception care and decrease the risk of an unintended pregnancy.