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Updated: Sep 13, 2025
08:46
Fertility Preservation Through Oocyte Vitrification: Clinical and Laboratory Perspectives
Published on: September 16, 2021
6.1K
Cancer and fertility management: FIGO best practice advice
Nikhil Purandare1, Francisco Ruiloba2, Long Nguyen-Hoang3,4
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Galway, Ireland.
Summary
Cancer treatments can impact fertility in young patients. This guidance emphasizes fertility preservation methods and collaborative care to support reproductive health during and after cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Oncology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Rising cancer incidence in reproductive-aged individuals necessitates fertility preservation strategies.
- Cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, targeted agents, immunotherapies) pose significant risks to gonadal function and fertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide best practice advice on fertility management for cancer patients of reproductive age.
- To outline key considerations, evaluate treatment impacts, and detail fertility preservation methods.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and established fertility preservation techniques.
- Evaluation of the impact of various cancer therapies on fertility.
- Discussion of barriers to fertility preservation adoption and post-treatment options.
Main Results:
- Established fertility preservation methods include oocyte/embryo cryopreservation, sperm banking, and ovarian tissue freezing.
- Barriers such as cost and limited access hinder widespread adoption.
- Collaborative counseling between oncologists and fertility specialists is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Integrating fertility-sparing interventions and preservation into cancer care is vital.
- Advocacy for equitable access to fertility resources is essential for holistic patient support.
- Further research is needed to refine interventions and expand options for survivors globally.
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