FERTILITY IN THE TIME OF CANCER

Here are ways to navigate parenthood dreams even with a cancer diagnosis. 

- Kayal Arivalan

Embarking on the journey of parenthood is a dream shared by many, but the path might seem daunting when the to-be mother is also faced with a cancer diagnosis. The emotional and physical toll of cancer treatment can create unique challenges for individuals aspiring to become parents. However, with the right information and support, it is possible to overcome these challenges and pursue parenthood while prioritising health and wellbeing. “Numerous individuals have not only successfully confronted cancer but have also achieved their dream of becoming parents, even if their parenthood journey began a little later than initially intended,” reveals Dr Sneha Sathe, fertility consultant with Nova IVF Fertility, Chembur, Mumbai. “Certain types of cancers are predominantly diagnosed among reproductive-age women and a small proportion of cancers originating in the reproductive tract are also detected in this age group,” she adds “For young patients, the diagnosis of cancer is a shock in itself and then comes another – the risk of infertility.”