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Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics 10/2013

01-10-2013 | Fertility Preservation

Experiences in fertility preservation: lessons learned to ensure that fertility and reproductive autonomy remain options for cancer survivors

Authors: Nicole Noyes, Katherine Melzer, Sarah Druckenmiller, M. Elizabeth Fino, Meghan Smith, Jaime M. Knopman

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 10/2013

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Abstract

Purpose

Assess fertility preservation (FP) measures chosen by patients newly diagnosed with malignancy and their outcomes.

Methods

Reproductive-age patients referred for FP underwent counseling and elected cryopreservation vs. no treatment. Outcome measures included ovarian stimulation, FP choice, oocytes/zygotes retrieved/cryopreserved and pregnancy outcome.

Results

From 2005 to 2012, 136 patients were counseled with 124 electing treatment: 83 oocyte-only, 21 oocyte + zygote and 20 zygote-only cryopreservation. Age, partnership and financial status factored into FP choice. Treatment was completed in 12 ± 2 days with 14 ± 11 metaphase-II oocytes harvested and cryopreserved/cycle. Eight patients returned to attempt pregnancy; three succeeded.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that oocyte and/or zygote banking are feasible FP options for women with malignancy; given the choice, the majority elected oocyte cryopreservation, highlighting desire for reproductive autonomy. Continued growth and research, combined with interdisciplinary communication, will ensure that appropriate candidates are offered FP and the potential for future parenthood, an important quality-of-life marker for survivors.
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Metadata
Title
Experiences in fertility preservation: lessons learned to ensure that fertility and reproductive autonomy remain options for cancer survivors
Authors
Nicole Noyes
Katherine Melzer
Sarah Druckenmiller
M. Elizabeth Fino
Meghan Smith
Jaime M. Knopman
Publication date
01-10-2013
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 10/2013
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-013-0066-2

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