Breast Cancer and Fertility

Breast cancer and fertility.

Breast cancer touches millions of people around the globe, presenting physical and emotional hurdles and also raising concerns about fertility. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, with approximately 2.3 million new cases diagnosed each year.

Although breast cancer is a challenging diagnosis for anyone, it can be particularly daunting for young women who would like biological children but haven’t yet started or completed their families. It’s essential to understand the impact of breast cancer on fertility and to explore preservation options, like egg or embryo freezing.

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, ask your oncology team as soon as possible for information about your recommended treatment plan, how it can impact your fertility, and your available options.

Read on to learn how breast cancer treatment intersects with fertility and the options available for those hoping to have children.

The Impact of Breast Cancer Treatment on Fertility

Breast cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy, can significantly impact a woman’s ability to conceive. Some cancer treatments can lead to temporary or permanent infertility in premenopausal women. These treatments can affect fertility in several ways:

Chemotherapy

Many chemotherapy drugs have the potential to harm the ovaries, which can significantly decrease the number of viable eggs essential for fertility. As a result, women undergoing chemotherapy may be less likely to conceive.

In some cases, this ovarian damage can be severe enough to lead to premature ovarian failure, a condition where the ovaries stop functioning correctly before the age of 40. This can lead to early menopause in some cases, with associated symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and infertility. The impact of chemotherapy on ovarian health underscores the importance of discussing fertility preservation options with healthcare providers before starting treatment.

Radiation Therapy

For individuals whose breast cancer has metastasized to areas requiring radiation near the pelvic region, there are significant considerations regarding fertility.

Radiation therapy targeting the pelvic area can damage reproductive organs, which may adversely impact fertility. In females, exposure to radiation near the ovaries can reduce the number of viable eggs, cause hormonal imbalances, or even trigger premature menopause. In males, radiation near the testes can affect sperm production and quality, potentially leading to reduced fertility or infertility.