Lived Experience of Women With Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia Treated with Chemotherapy in Selected Hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024: Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Gestational Trophoblastic  Neoplasia (GTN) is a cancer related to pregnancy that increases the risk of maternal mortality if not detected and treated early. GTN is generally curable with chemotherapy; however, patients may experience different adverse effects of chemotherapy, including physical and nonphysical adverse effects. Objectives: This study aims to explore the experiences of women with Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia during and after treatments with chemotherapy in selected hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024. Methods: We conducted a phenomenological explorative study from February to March 2024, at Saint Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) and Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) among purposively selected women who survived GTN chemotherapy treatment. Data were collected using face-to-face in-depth interviews and were imported to ATLAS. ti 9 software and coded after transcription and translation into English. Data were analyzed using both inductive and deductive thematic interpretation. The results are presented through thick description supported by salient direct quotes from participants' statements to describe the main themes. Result: Five major themes emerged from a total of 12 participants with a median age of 34 years who received chemotherapy for GTN. Women with GTN described profound life changes during and after treatment, including physical exhaustion and disrupted family roles. “I couldn’t care for my children; I felt like a burden.” Emotional reactions were marked by fear and confusion, largely due to a lack of awareness about GTN. “I thought I was dying... I had never heard of this disease.” While some participants felt emotionally supported by nurses, others reported limited support at home. “Nurses helped me emotionally, but I had no one to talk to at home.” Coping strategies varied, including spirituality, distraction, and peer support. To improve care, women emphasized the need for better health education, access to counselling, and consistent availability of medications throughout the treatment process. Conclusion: Women with GTN faced complex challenges across physical, emotional, cognitive, and reproductive domains. Limited awareness about the disease heightened emotional distress, and concerns about fertility and recurrence persisted after treatment. While support was received, gaps in medication access, information, and psychosocial care were evident. Enhancing holistic, patient-centered support is essential to improve outcomes and quality of life for women with GTN. . [Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 2025; 39(3)] Keywords: Experience, Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, chemotherapy, women, Ethiopia.