Beyond Survival: Integrating Fertility Preservation into Gynaecologic Cancer Management

Journal article : Review

As survival rates among patients with gynaecological cancers continue to improve, fertility preservation has become an increasingly important aspect of comprehensive cancer care, particularly for younger women diagnosed during their reproductive years. The impact of treatment on fertility varies according to cancer type, stage, and modality, necessitating individualised preservation strategies. Fertility preservation is both feasible and safe in carefully selected patients with early-stage gynaecological cancers. Oocyte and embryo cryopreservation remain the most widely accepted techniques, particularly when time allows for ovarian stimulation. Fertility-sparing surgeries, such as radical trachelectomy and conservative management of early endometrial cancer, have shown promising oncological and reproductive outcomes. However, barriers including access, timing, and awareness continue to limit broader implementation. In modern society, fertility-preserving strategies should form an integral part of treatment planning for reproductive-aged women with gynaecological malignancies. Early referral to a fertility specialist, patient-centred counselling, and a coordinated multidisciplinary approach are essential to optimise both oncological and reproductive outcomes. Further research and education are required to refine guidelines and expand access to fertility-preserving care. This review presents the current fertility preservation options available to women with gynaecological cancers, including cervical, ovarian, and endometrial malignancies, and highlights the importance of early multidisciplinary intervention in delivering personalised care.

Authors: Pappa, C; Fatum, M; Nasser, H; Khajori, U; Christmas, D

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: MDPI
• Journal: Reproductive Medicine
• Volume: 7
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 22
• Article number: 22
• Publication date: 2026-05-13
• Acceptance date: 2026-05-09
• DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed7020022
• EISSN: 2673-3897
• ISSN: 2673-3897
• Language: English
• Keywords: endometrial cancer; ovarian tissue preservation; artificial intelligence; cervical cancer; fertility preservation; ovarian cancer; atypical hyperplasia
• Subtype: Review