VIDEO: Can We Still Have a Child After You're Gone?

VIDEO: Can We Still Have a Child After You're Gone?
Webinar Recording - "Can We Still Have a Child After You're Gone?" Navigating the Challenges of Reproductive Planning with Terminally Ill Patients

Joanna Sharpless, MD
Assistant Professor, Division of Palliative Medicine
University of California, San Francisco

Among the many disruptive effects of a terminal cancer diagnosis in young people is its ability to affect reproductive planning and the opportunity for parenthood. While some reproductive-aged cancer patients receive fertility counseling at diagnosis, ongoing guidance often does not occur during the illness course. Associated patient and family distress may go unrecognized and/or unaddressed.

Using a case-based framework, this webinar examines the existential, spiritual, ethical, and logistical challenges that complicate reproductive planning for patients and families as they face a terminal cancer diagnosis. We explore opportunities for individual providers and transdisciplinary teams to screen for distress associated with fertility and reproduction at end of life, and to provide support throughout the illness and bereavement experience.
49.00