Ovarian cancer is one of the most complex medical challenges faced by women of reproductive age. Although it is primarily associated with general health, its impact on fertility cannot be underestimated. For many women, receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis not only means facing oncological treatment but also immediately considering how to protect their chances of having children in the future.
In this blog, we will thoroughly explore how ovarian cancer can affect fertility, what options exist to preserve reproductive capacity, and how a specialized approach can radically change the maternity outlook for these women.
Ovarian cancer originates when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to multiply uncontrollably. It can be of different types, with high-grade serous carcinoma being the most common.
Early detection is difficult because symptoms are often vague or attributed to other causes, and current screening methods are limited. Therefore, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages.
Some risk factors include:
However, ovarian cancer can also affect young women of reproductive age, adding an even more sensitive dimension to the diagnosis: the possibility of compromising their fertility.
The impact on fertility can result from multiple factors:
Each situation is unique and depends on the stage of cancer, the type of treatment needed, and the patient's maternity wishes.
When the diagnosis allows (meaning cancer does not require immediate intervention), there are options to preserve fertility before starting oncological treatment:
This involves stimulating the ovaries to retrieve multiple eggs, which are then extracted and vitrified for future use.
If the woman has a partner or is willing to use a sperm donor, the eggs can be fertilized immediately and the resulting embryos frozen.
An experimental technique involving the removal and freezing of ovarian tissue before treatment, which can later be reimplanted to restore ovarian function.
If fertility preservation was not possible before starting treatment or if the ovaries were damaged, there are still alternatives for achieving motherhood:
Egg donation is a safe and effective option for women who cannot use their own eggs.
When cancer treatment has affected the uterus or there is a risk of recurrence with pregnancy, a surrogate mother can be used.
Although it is not a direct medical solution, adoption is a legal and loving option for building a family after facing cancer.
Overcoming ovarian cancer involves a profound physical and emotional process. That’s why it is important to consider:
Comprehensive support is key so that patients can navigate this journey with confidence and hope.
Having a team of assisted reproduction specialists is fundamental. Institutions like Ingenes offer:
Each treatment must be adapted to the clinical and emotional situation of the patient, to offer not only the best chance of success but also a humane and respectful experience.
If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and are concerned about your fertility, some key questions to ask include:
An ovarian cancer diagnosis changes life in many ways, but it does not mean the end of the dream of motherhood. Thanks to advances in reproductive medicine and fertility preservation programs, today there are more paths than ever for those facing this tough battle.
If you or someone close to you is facing an ovarian cancer diagnosis, you are not alone. At Ingenes, we bring all our experience, technology, and human commitment to help you preserve and build the family you desire.
Schedule a consultation and discover all the options that science and love for life have to offer you.
