In a new installment of the series Beyond the Tumor: Answering Questions About Ovarian and Breast Cancer, organized by IVOQA and the AMOH Association, Dr. María José Gómez, gynecologist at Viamed Santa Elena University Hospital, explains the available options for preserving fertility in young women diagnosed with ovarian cancer who must undergo surgery. This approach falls within the field of reproductive oncology, a specialized branch that seeks to balance cancer treatment with the desire for motherhood.
Facing a cancer diagnosis involves making difficult decisions, especially when it comes to preserving fertility in young women. In this context, personalized medicine takes on special relevance, making it possible to design strategies that balance oncologic effectiveness with future quality of life.
What Options Exist for Preserving Fertility Before Ovarian Cancer Surgery?
Although ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages, in some cases it is possible to apply fertility preservation strategies, particularly when the diagnosis is made in young women and in early stages.
- An individualized evaluation before surgery is essential.
- The decision must be made jointly with the oncology team and fertility specialists.
- The goal is to preserve the possibility of pregnancy without compromising oncologic safety.
Available options include oocyte cryopreservation, preservation of the uterus and contralateral ovary, and assisted reproductive techniques, always adapted to the specific clinical situation.
Information and Support for Decision-Making
Dr. Gómez emphasizes the importance of providing patients with clear, accessible, and evidence-based information, as well as emotional support during the decision-making process. Psychological support and specialized counseling are key to reducing stress and facilitating informed choices.
Fertility preservation has not only a physical impact but also psychological and emotional significance in the lives of young women with cancer. For this reason, it is recommended that this issue be addressed from the very first moment of diagnosis, within a multidisciplinary team experienced in gynecologic oncology and reproductive medicine.
