Online discussions about cancer and fertility: an analysis of Reddit threads

Young patients may search the Internet and consult online discussion platforms for health-related information. This can be useful and supportive, but also problematic if misinformation is spread. Fertility-related information in the context of cancer is complex and confounded by uncertainty, which can cause misunderstandings and unnecessary burden.

Discussions on the online platform Reddit were searched and analyzed for questions around cancer and fertility. A mix of structured coding (e.g., number/types of questions) and qualitative analyses of user questions and comments were used to uncover salient content and interactions online.

A total of N = 149 relevant threads were identified, posted on three subreddits related to cancer and fertility. Posted questions aimed at seeking either information (57.7%, n = 86) or advice/support (42.3%, n = 63). Information-related questions focused on medical aspects (e.g., fertility status, assisted reproductive technologies [ART]), financial aspects (e.g., health insurance), or medical decision-making (e.g., ART, fertility assessments). Advice-related questions focused on the emotional impact of (possible) infertility (e.g., coping, burden of unsuccessful pregnancy attempts). Analyses of n = 20 comment sections revealed six themes within answers to information-related questions (e.g., personal experiences/stories to provide advice, offering explanations/ suggestions). These interactions typically occurred in a respectful and supportive tone of voice. While misinformation was infrequent, users sometimes derailed into subdiscussions unrelated to the initially posted question.

Online communities like Reddit offer a place where cancer patients/survivors may seek information and exchange ideas regarding their concerns in real time. Frequent topics of discussion can serve as areas of priority for developing educational and communication interventions in clinical care.