Module description

Today many young patients stricken by cancer survive this disease. Since chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy are gonadotoxic, many strategies have been devised to pursue fertility preservation. This module will review and explain the different types of strategies available like preserving gametes (spermatozoa and oocytes), embryos or ovarian and testicular tissue for use after recovery. Other options such as ovarian transposition, use of GnRH agonist and new promising areas of research will be also covered. Protocols of ovarian stimulation for patients with breast cancer, one of the most common cancers for women in reproductive age will be described and so the guidelines to follow for implementing and recommending fertility preservation.

Finally, the use of assisted reproductive technologies for experimental procedures, particularly in very young patients, poses many ethical dilemmas for both professionals and families that will be addressed.

Learning objectives:

Upon completion of this program, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the various options (both experimental and established) available to preserve fertility for patients diagnosed with cancer.
• Identify the most important risk factors for causing premature ovarian failure or testicular failure after cancer.
• Discuss the strategies to stimulate follicular development in patients with breast cancer.
• Get an update of the clinical outcomes from the various options and recognize the importance of following guidelines for addressing the issue of fertility preservation.
• Discuss ethical dilemmas and formulate strategies to counsel and consent patients interested in fertility preservation

Target audience

This course is intended for the post-residency clinicians and fellows in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.  It is ideal for the clinicians who plan to get started in IVF. It is also ideal for the general gynecologists who want to have a basic knowledge of ART options for patients at risk of compromising their future fertility.

CME accreditation

This module has been submitted for CME Accreditation from the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME). This course may include data on investigational uses of drugs and other treatments not approved by EMEA, FDA and other National or International Health Authorities in the indications mentioned.