Kate McCracken1, Leena Nahata. 1. aSection of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Nationwide Children's Hospital bDivision of General Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine cCenter for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital dDivision of Endocrinology, The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to outline current pediatric fertility preservation options, and discuss ethical and financial considerations impacting this rapidly expanding field. RECENT FINDINGS: With the improvement in treatment of pediatric malignancies and medical conditions that threaten fertility, survival rates are increasing. Therefore, minimizing long-term morbidities such as gonadal damage and infertility is of utmost importance. Impaired fertility not only has a significant negative impact on patient's quality of life; in women, gonadal damage puts patients at risk for premature menopause, and increased risk of cardiac, skeletal, and cognitive issues. Fortunately, fertility preservation options exist for both female and male prepubertal and pubertal patients, and discussion of such options with patients and their families prior to the initiation of therapy and/or before further deterioration of gonadal function is crucial. A multidisciplinary approach to fertility counseling, with attention to the patient's goals and cultural beliefs, is ideal. SUMMARY: Although several national organizations support integrating a fertility consultation into routine care, fertility preservation is still underutilized. Continued research is needed to understand barriers for patients/families and reduce the number of missed opportunities for fertility preservation.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to outline current pediatric fertility preservation options, and discuss ethical and financial considerations impacting this rapidly expanding field. RECENT FINDINGS: With the improvement in treatment of pediatric malignancies and medical conditions that threaten fertility, survival rates are increasing. Therefore, minimizing long-term morbidities such as gonadal damage and infertility is of utmost importance. Impaired fertility not only has a significant negative impact on patient's quality of life; in women, gonadal damage puts patients at risk for premature menopause, and increased risk of cardiac, skeletal, and cognitive issues. Fortunately, fertility preservation options exist for both female and male prepubertal and pubertal patients, and discussion of such options with patients and their families prior to the initiation of therapy and/or before further deterioration of gonadal function is crucial. A multidisciplinary approach to fertility counseling, with attention to the patient's goals and cultural beliefs, is ideal. SUMMARY: Although several national organizations support integrating a fertility consultation into routine care, fertility preservation is still underutilized. Continued research is needed to understand barriers for patients/families and reduce the number of missed opportunities for fertility preservation.
Authors: Sharrόn L Manuel; Molly B Moravek; Rafael Confino; Kristin N Smith; Angela K Lawson; Susan C Klock; Mary Ellen Pavone Journal: J Assist Reprod Genet Date: 2019-12-11 Impact factor: 3.412
Authors: J-B Stukenborg; J P Alves-Lopes; M Kurek; H Albalushi; A Reda; V Keros; V Töhönen; R Bjarnason; P Romerius; M Sundin; U Norén Nyström; C Langenskiöld; H Vogt; L Henningsohn; R T Mitchell; O Söder; C Petersen; K Jahnukainen Journal: Hum Reprod Date: 2018-09-01 Impact factor: 6.918