Effects of cancer treatment on reproductive health

Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy, present distinct challenges to reproductive health. Ovarian function might undergo various degrees of impairment, leading to a significantly diminished ovarian reserve, even without persistent amenorrhea. The return of menses post-chemotherapy might not mirror the full extend of follicular damage. Ovarian reserve testing is indicated in reproductive-aged cancer survivors. The magnitude of follicle depletion can be influenced by factors such as age, initial ovarian reserve, and specific treatment modalities. Radiotherapy, dependent on its target, can introduce risk to both ovarian and uterine health. Moreover, radiotherapy targeting the brain can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-reproductive axis, adding another layer of reproductive complication. As cancer survival rates improve, addressing these multifaceted reproductive concerns has become essential.