Overview of Fertility Preservation Approaches in Cancer Patients

Abstract

The long-term consequences of cancer therapy, including the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility, have become a major concern for young patients who already must face a life-threatening diagnosis. The possibility of conceiving after being cured represents a priority for these patients and should be discussed before starting treatment. Fertility preservation strategies have advanced significantly during the last few decades, providing the possibility of offering more individualized approaches. However, except for cryopreservation of embryos or oocytes, other options, such as cryopreservation of ovarian tissue, pharmacological protection against gonadotoxic treatment, or in vitro oocyte maturation, remain experimental. This chapter focuses on the advantages and outcomes associated with each procedure and provides an overview of future perspectives in the field.