Issues with Fertility in Young Women with Breast Cancer

Abstract

Purpose of Review: There are competing risks and benefits of cancer therapies and fertility preservation in young women with breast cancer. Here we discuss the impact of therapy on fertility, fertility preservation options, and emerging information in fertility issues for the breast cancer patient. Recent Findings: All systemic forms of breast cancer treatment can impact future fertility. Pre-therapy fertility preservation may offer the best opportunity for future fertility. Shared decision making with the individual patient and clinical scenario is important. Early referral to a fertility specialist should be offered to young patients. Summary: We find that fertility preservation options for young women diagnosed with breast cancer are currently available, but potentially under-utilized. We conclude that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary, with discussion of potential risks and benefits of fertility preservation options in the context of the patient’s clinical disease.