Oncofertility: an emerging discipline in obstetrics and gynecology

Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2013 Aug;68(8):582-93. doi: 10.1097/OGX.0b013e31829d460d.

Abstract

Oncofertility is an exciting new interdisciplinary field that encompasses the obstetrician gynecologist, gynecologic oncologist, reproductive endocrinologist, and primary care physician in a common goal to provide fertility preservation options for cancer patients. Maintaining their fertility is of the upmost importance for many oncology patients diagnosed during their childbearing years. This review addresses the common types of cancers in reproductive-age patients and how the treatment of these cancers may impact reproductive potential. Fertility preservation treatments will also be discussed to assist health care providers in appropriately counseling patients about options after a diagnosis of cancer. The goal of oncofertility is to provide both physicians and patients with the knowledge and resources to make fertility an ongoing opportunity for all patients who desire a future with children.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / complications
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Cryopreservation
  • Embryo, Mammalian
  • Female
  • Fertility Preservation / methods*
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / complications
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / therapy*
  • Gynecology
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / etiology
  • Infertility, Female / prevention & control*
  • Infertility, Male / etiology
  • Infertility, Male / prevention & control*
  • Leukemia / complications
  • Leukemia / therapy*
  • Lymphoma / complications
  • Lymphoma / therapy*
  • Male
  • Medical Oncology
  • Obstetrics
  • Oocytes
  • Ovary
  • Physician's Role
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Spermatozoa

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents