Fertility Preservation in Cancer Treatment

Cancer Treatments and Fertility

• Cancer treatments can impact fertility, crucial for individuals considering future pregnancy.
• Prior discussion with healthcare providers about fertility preservation options is essential.
• Fertility preservation methods may require time, potentially delaying cancer treatment initiation.

Options for Fertility Preservation in Women

• Egg or Embryo Cryopreservation

  • Involves collecting and freezing eggs (cryopreservation) or fertilized eggs (embryo cryopreservation).
  • The collection process takes 2-4 weeks, utilizing fertility-stimulating medications.
  • Unfertilized eggs are more sensitive during freezing due to ice crystal formation; vitrification improves success rates.
  • Embryo freezing requires fertilization with partner or donor sperm.

• Oophoropexy (Ovarian Transposition)

  • Surgical procedure relocating ovaries to minimize radiation exposure during treatment.
  • Can be performed laparoscopically if no additional surgeries are needed.
  • Some women conceive post-procedure, but may require a second surgery for optimal ovary placement.

• Ovarian Tissue Freezing

  • Involves laparoscopic removal of ovarian tissue, specifically the outer layer containing eggs.
  • Tissue can be reimplanted in the original or a different location for future use.
  • Successful pregnancies have occurred using this technique, though it's not viable for all cancer types.

• Radical Trachelectomy & Conservative Surgery

  • Relevant for cervical cancer treatment; involves cervix removal while preserving the uterus.
  • Requires cerclage for pregnancies, increasing risks of premature birth and requiring C-section delivery.
  • Other conservative surgical options may be viable for specific gynecological cancers.

• Ovarian Suppression

  • Aims to protect ovaries from chemotherapy-induced damage by temporarily shutting them down.
  • Utilizes long-acting hormonal medications known as GnRH agonists to preserve ovarian function.

Financial Considerations for Fertility Preservation

• Fertility preservation techniques can be costly; some insurance plans may offer coverage.
• Explore financial assistance options through the National Infertility Association and consult insurance providers.
• Understanding the financial aspects is crucial for planning fertility preservation strategies.

This quiz explores the impact of cancer treatments on fertility and the importance of discussing preservation options with your healthcare team. Learn about the various methods available for maintaining fertility and the potential implications for starting treatment on time.