[Borderline Ovarian Tumours: CNGOF Guidelines for Clinical Practice - Fertility]

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Oncofertility

Background:

• Borderline ovarian tumours (BOT) constitute approximately 15% of ovarian neoplasms.
• BOT are frequently diagnosed in women of reproductive age.
• The favorable prognosis of BOT supports prioritizing ovarian function and fertility preservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding and recommendations for fertility preservation in women diagnosed with borderline ovarian tumours.
• To inform clinical management strategies regarding fertility counseling, surgical options, and assisted reproductive technologies for BOT patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature search using keywords: borderline ovarian tumour, fertility, fertility preservation, infertility, fertility-sparing surgery, in vitro fertilization, ovarian stimulation, oocyte cryopreservation.
• Databases searched included PubMed, with articles in English and French.

Main Results:

• Fertility counseling is crucial; patients must be informed about potential ovarian reserve damage and adhesions from surgery.
• Fertility-sparing surgery should be considered for young women desiring fertility preservation.
• Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) is not causally linked to BOT, but cautious use is advised with poor prognostic factors; it can be initiated post-diagnosis if infertility arises.
• Oocyte cryopreservation is recommended alongside conservative surgery due to recurrence risk.

Conclusions:

• Integrating fertility preservation strategies into the management of BOT is essential for women of reproductive age.
• While fertility-sparing surgery and oocyte cryopreservation are established options, other strategies remain experimental.
• Multidisciplinary approaches and clear patient counseling are vital for optimizing fertility outcomes in BOT survivors.