A child can completely change a person’s life. However, the path can be emotionally taxing and difficult for those who have cancer. Every year, almost 140,000 people between the ages of 45 and 65 who are in their reproductive years are diagnosed with cancer.

Abhishek Aggrawal, Chief Business Officer, Birla Fertility & IVF, C.K. Birla Group, shared his insights in a reputed Newspaper of  Express Healthcare, that while guidelines suggest starting conversations about fertility preservation before beginning cancer treatment, there appears to be an apparent lack of practical implementation.

He also highlights that awareness around the evolving landscape of onco-fertility is needed – so that a supportive, informed, and inclusive environment for cancer patients and couples navigating fertility issues can be fostered. The advent of medical marvels such as fertility preservation presents a ray of hope for women battling cancer.

Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) including oocyte cryopreservation (egg freezing), ovarian transposition, and ovarian tissue freezing, among others have emerged as effective methods for preserving fertility in women undergoing cancer treatment. These are innovative techniques that make it possible for cancer patients to freeze their eggs before undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, thereby preserving their reproductive potential for the future.

Lastly, he emphasises that it is crucial to empower cancer patients with the right information and support regarding fertility preservation options, ensuring that they can make informed decisions. Fertility preservation for them is not just a medical intervention, but a critical factor in ensuring that they have the opportunity to conceive in future, despite their cancer diagnosis.