The Experience of Gynecologic Cancer in Young Women: A Qualitative Study
- Author:
Sung-Jin KIM
1
;
Hyunjeong SHIN
Author Information
- Publication Type:RESEARCH PAPER
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing 2023;53(1):115-128
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to understand the experiences of women under 40 years of age with gynecologic cancer.
Methods:Semi-structured individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 Korean female patients aged 21~39 years with gynecologic cancer. The data were analyzed using Corbin and Strauss' grounded theory approach, including open coding, context analysis, and integrating categories.
Results:Grounded theory analysis revealed nine categories and a core category of ‘the journey to find my life after losing the life as a typical woman.’ The categories that emerged as the conditions are ‘Unwelcomed guest, cancer,’ ‘Completely devastated life as an ordinary woman,’ ‘Uncertain future,’ ‘Losing my physical characteristics as a woman,’ and ‘Life tied with treatments.’ The actions/interactions were ‘Decrease of interpersonal relationships,’ ‘A lonely battle to overcome alone,’ and ‘The power to overcome hardships.’ The consequence was ‘Live my own life.’
Conclusion:This study contributes to the development of a substantive theory of the experience of gynecologic cancer in young women, which has been on the rise in recent years. The study’s results are expected to be used as a basis for providing nursing care to help young women with gynecologic cancer adapt to their disease.
