Authors Keywords: caregivers, gynaecological cancers, COVID-19 Abstract

Background: Gynaecological cancer patients rely on informal primary caregivers, typically family members, to provide care an support. This can place a heavy burden on caregivers, especially when patients have advanced or terminal cancer. The COVID-19 pandemic affected healthcare systems worldwide, which may have added to the responsibilities and strain of caregivers. However, literature exploring the experiences of informal caregivers of advanced or terminal gynaecological cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic is limited within the South African context. To address this gap, we explored the experiences of informal primary caregivers of women with advanced or terminal gynaecological cancers. This description provides insight into caregivers’ experiences during a challenging period in their lives.

Methods: We conducted an exploratory, qualitative study with 16 informal primary caregivers. The caregivers participated in individual, semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: We identified three themes, namely 1) limited hospital access for caregivers, 2) hypervigilance of caregivers, and 3) an opportunity to bond. The findings highlight the extent to which informal caregivers protected and prioritised the well-being of patients during their illness trajectory. Participants experienced a communication gap with healthcare professionals, making it more challenging for them to administer care to patients at home. Caregivers were hypervigilant and spent much time and effort protecting patients from contracting COVID-19.

Conclusion: While COVID-19 introduced additional challenges to caregivers, it also provided an opportunity to strengthen their bond with the patients.

Author Biographies

C Odendaal, Stellenbosch University

Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

H Simmonds, Stellenbosch University

Division of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

W Mateane, Stellenbosch University

Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

R Roomaney, Stellenbosch University

Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

Issue Section

Original Research

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