Preserving Fertility After a Young Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Emma's Journey and Expert Advice
At 28, Emma was a nursing student when she received a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer. She had always dreamed of having children, and upon learning that her treatment could jeopardize her fertility, she quickly decided to pursue in vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg freezing.
"You think you have time for everything, but you don't," Emma reflects. "Your life and future are put on hold, and you may not even be able to have kids."
The National Breast Cancer Foundation states that about 9% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. are under 45. While surgery and radiation typically don't affect fertility, chemotherapy can lead to immediate or long-term infertility if eggs are damaged or destroyed. Other treatments, like hormone therapy, generally don't cause infertility, but their prolonged duration can conflict with the biological clock for childbearing.
Gilead collaborates with various organizations that aid individuals with breast cancer. The Young Survival Coalition (YSC), one such organization, addresses the specific needs of those of childbearing age and supports patients under 40 throughout their cancer treatment journey.
“People might urge you to prioritize your cancer treatment, but it’s crucial to also consider life post-treatment and the potential impact of any treatment decisions,” says Amanda Nixon, YSC’s Director of Community Engagement and Empowerment. She emphasizes that her organization always advises younger women diagnosed with cancer to consult a fertility preservation expert if they are interested in having biological children.
"You think you have time for everything, but you don't," Emma reflects. "Your life and future are put on hold, and you may not even be able to have kids."
The National Breast Cancer Foundation states that about 9% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. are under 45. While surgery and radiation typically don't affect fertility, chemotherapy can lead to immediate or long-term infertility if eggs are damaged or destroyed. Other treatments, like hormone therapy, generally don't cause infertility, but their prolonged duration can conflict with the biological clock for childbearing.
Gilead collaborates with various organizations that aid individuals with breast cancer. The Young Survival Coalition (YSC), one such organization, addresses the specific needs of those of childbearing age and supports patients under 40 throughout their cancer treatment journey.
“People might urge you to prioritize your cancer treatment, but it’s crucial to also consider life post-treatment and the potential impact of any treatment decisions,” says Amanda Nixon, YSC’s Director of Community Engagement and Empowerment. She emphasizes that her organization always advises younger women diagnosed with cancer to consult a fertility preservation expert if they are interested in having biological children.
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