Factors that Influence Self-Identity in Women Who Have Undergone Gynecological Cancer Treatment

Gynecological cancers make up nearly 10% of all cancers diagnosed in Australian women. Despite this, increased survival rates have seen many women facing changes to self-identity post diagnosis alone. This study investigated the factors influencing a woman’s self-identity following gynecological cancer treatment by interviewing 11 women aged 30–61, with various gynecological cancer types. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and reflexive thematic analysis was utilized. Two overarching themes were identified, changes in self-identity and the influence of stigma, with four subthemes: the cancer identity, the real meaning of survivorship, understanding womanhood, and the socially changed body. Outcomes show that social norms play a major role in the way women see themselves following treatment and that a reevaluation of blanket terms (e.g., survivor) is required within this space. This knowledge can be used to inform health-care professionals working with women following treatment in order to improve psychological well-being and self-acceptance.