Cancer is a life-altering disease that not only affects a person’s health but also their future plans, including starting a family. The advent of cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery has significantly improved the chances of survival for cancer patients. However, these treatments can also impact fertility, making it challenging for cancer survivors to start or expand their families. This is where the field of Oncofertility comes in.
Oncofertility is a relatively new field that focuses on preserving the reproductive potential of cancer patients who are at risk of infertility due to their treatment. It combines the expertise of oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, and fertility specialists to provide patients with options to protect their fertility before, during, and after cancer treatment.
There are several fertility preservation options available for cancer patients, including:
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation: This involves removing and freezing a portion of the patient’s ovaries, which can be transplanted back after cancer treatment.
Embryo cryopreservation: This involves collecting eggs from the patient and fertilizing them with sperm to create embryos, which are then frozen and stored.
Sperm banking: This is a simple and straightforward option for male patients, involving collecting and freezing sperm for future use.
Ovarian suppression: This involves suppressing ovulation with hormones to prevent the loss of eggs during cancer treatment.
It’s essential to note that these fertility preservation options are not a guarantee of future fertility, and some patients may still face infertility even after undergoing these procedures. However, they provide patients with the hope and possibility of starting a family in the future.
In conclusion, Oncofertility is a critical aspect of cancer care, providing cancer survivors with the chance to fulfill their dream of starting a family. With the advances in technology and medical treatments, the future of Oncofertility is promising, and we can expect to see even more effective methods to preserve fertility in cancer patients.
WOMB FERTLITY CENTER at Madinaguda, Hyderabad has an outstanding team of Doctors led by Dr. M.Loukya to answer any of the questions regarding Oncofertility treatments.