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Fertility Preservation Through Oocyte Vitrification: Clinical and Laboratory Perspectives
Published on: September 16, 2021
Contraception for cancer survivors
Eleanor Bimla Schwarz1, Rachel Hess, James Trussell
1Center for Research on Health Care, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 230 McKee Place, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. schwarzeb@upmc.edu
Journal of General Internal Medicine
|October 20, 2009
Summary
Cancer survivors can safely use intrauterine devices (IUDs) for contraception. The hormone-free Copper T380A IUD is a top choice for hormonally-related cancers, while a levonorgestrel IUD suits other cases.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Oncology
- Contraception
Background:
- Cancer survivors require effective and safe contraception options.
- Hormonal therapies and cancer history influence contraceptive choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the safety and efficacy of contraceptive methods for cancer survivors.
- To provide guidance on selecting appropriate contraception post-cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of evidence on contraceptive safety and efficacy in cancer survivors.
- Analysis of hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options.
Main Results:
- The Copper T380A intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective, reversible, long-acting, hormone-free method suitable as a first-line option for survivors of hormonally-mediated cancers.
- Levonorgestrel-containing IUDs may be preferred for women on tamoxifen or those with non-hormonally mediated cancers.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are compatible with various imaging techniques, including CT and MRI.
Conclusions:
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a safe and effective contraceptive choice for many cancer survivors.
- Personalized recommendations are crucial, considering cancer type, treatment, and hormonal status.
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