Why Should You Preserve Eggs Before Undergoing Cancer Treatment? Expert Explains

Breast cancer cases are rising alarmingly in the country, leading to increased mortality and morbidity rates. Data from the Ministry of Health, sourced from the National Cancer Registry Programme Report, indicates a steady increase in breast cancer cases and related deaths between 2019 and 2023. In 2019, India reported over 2 lakh breast cancer cases, a figure that rose by approximately 10% to 2.2 lakh in 2023. Deaths due to the disease also saw a similar increase, rising from 74,481 to 82,429 during the same period. Among the states, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar reported the highest numbers of breast cancer cases and deaths, with Uttar Pradesh alone recording 1.46 lakh cases from 2019 to 2023.

Maharashtra (93,130), West Bengal (82,939), Tamil Nadu (75,413), and Bihar (73,882) followed closely. In the national capital, Delhi, breast cancer cases increased from 3,373 in 2019 to 3,859 in 2023. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with an estimated 6.65 lakh deaths among females in 2022. India ranks highest in the number of estimated breast cancer deaths for that year, highlighting the urgent need for attention to breast cancer awareness and prevention. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Bharati Dhorepatil, a consultant infertility expert at NOVA IVF Fertility in Pune, discussed why egg freezing can be a beneficial option for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

Breast cancer is a complex disease caused by uncontrollable growth and multiplication of cells in the breast. It can be triggered by genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, hormonal changes, and environmental exposures. Recognizing breast cancer symptoms early is crucial for timely intervention. While lumps or masses are often the most recognized signs, changes in breast shape or size, persistent swelling, unexplained pain in or around the breast, dimpling of the skin, or nipple discharge are other important indicators that shouldn’t be ignored.

Once breast cancer is confirmed through self-examination, mammograms, or MRI, it becomes crucial for women to consider egg freezing before starting treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy, depending on the tumor's location and size. Women diagnosed with breast cancer who are planning to undergo treatment should consult a fertility expert to discuss egg freezing options, helping them to fulfill their dream of pregnancy in the future.

Cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation, can be detrimental to fertility, potentially causing premature ovarian failure or affecting egg quality. For this reason, women should consult a fertility specialist promptly to explore options such as egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) for future pregnancy.

What Is Egg Freezing?

Egg freezing, also known as egg banking or oocyte cryopreservation, is a powerful solution for women who wish to postpone pregnancy due to cancer treatments that may increase the risk of infertility. This fertility preservation technique involves collecting, freezing, and storing a woman's eggs for future use. Women with breast or other cancers can now undergo treatment and still have the possibility of achieving pregnancy and embracing motherhood. When a woman is ready to conceive, the frozen eggs can be thawed and fertilized to create embryos for implantation in her uterus. Educating women with breast cancer about fertility preservation options like egg freezing before beginning cancer treatment empowers them to make informed decisions. Egg freezing also allows women to become genetic parents using their own eggs, even if they are single, and reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in children. Women are encouraged to prioritize their reproductive health by considering egg freezing.

Why Egg Freezing Is Important For Women Before Undergoing Cancer Treatment?

Preserving eggs before cancer treatment is not just a precaution but an empowering choice for women with breast cancer to shape their future. A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but women should focus on their fertility alongside their physical and mental well-being. Knowing they have taken steps to preserve fertility can help reduce stress and anxiety, enabling them to approach the breast cancer journey with optimism. Women are encouraged to join support groups, consult with other breast cancer survivors, and consider fertility preservation options. Women with breast cancer can preserve their fertility and still fulfill their dream of becoming mothers. After a breast cancer diagnosis, taking prompt action to safeguard reproductive health is essential. Rest assured, egg freezing is a safe procedure with minimal complications. Despite rising cases, advancements in medication and surgery have significantly improved survival rates, allowing women to return to normal life and consider parenthood. Egg freezing should be considered prior to chemotherapy, with conception planned after consulting a breast cancer specialist.