Fertility Problems in Breast Cancer Survivorship: Special Focus on Younger Breast Cancer Survivors

Women diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age (15–39) are a unique population in terms of both the biology of cancer and the way they experience their cancer journey. This age range covers most of the reproductive period when the major events in a woman’s life occur. Due to advances in diagnosis and treatment, breast cancer survival rates have increased in recent years. However, especially chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments may result in primary ovarian insufficiency/hypoestrogenism and genitourinary syndrome of menopause. There are several options available for younger breast cancer survivors who are concerned about preserving their fertility. Fertility preservation through procedures such as oocyte/embryo cryopreservation. Are common options before the treatment of breast cancer. Another option is ovarian tissue preservation, where part of the ovary is removed and frozen for potential re-implantation in the future. Health professionals need to discuss fertility preservation options with younger breast cancer patients before treatment.