Ethical Issues Surrounding Fertility Preservation in Cancer Patients

Abstract

Fertility preservation is a newly developed branch of reproductive medicine aimed at preserving the potential for genetic parenthood in adults of reproductive age or children, who are at risk of sterility before undergoing anticancer treatments. Except for embryo and semen freezing, all the available options to preserve fertility are considered experimental and thus, they raise ethical issues. In this study, we reviewed the informed consent and the risk-benefit analysis of offering experimental procedures for both adults and children when they are in vulnerable situations. In particular, children represent a special category of patients and their assent to treatment to be sought at anytime should be possible. Overall, there should be no ethical objections to offer these services as they are offered with the scope of preserving future fertility.

Preserving the Right to Future Children: An Ethical Case Analysis

“…However, it would be desirable to know Ms. Jones’ decision making process and what sources impacted her evaluation. In a recent review of ethical considerations in the use of experimental fertility preservation options for children, Patrizio and Caplan (2010) conclude that overall, “there should be no ethical objections to offer these services as they are offered with the scope of preserving future fertility” (724). Ms. Jones has set a precedent for parents who also must perform duties of proxy decision-making for their children in times of crisis.…”

Fertility preservation options for young women with breast cancer

“…However, more recent study of the longterm health of infants born after cryopreservation of an embryo with slow freezing demonstrate outcomes comparable to infants born of spontaneous conceptions in fertile women [42 ]. Though technically still classified as experimental by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, successful conception from cryopreserved oocytes has increased in the past few years [43]. Also, there are encouraging data on the health of infants born as a result of this technology.…”

Pathways toward the future: points to consider for oncofertility oversight

“…An oncofertility oversight body should ensure that appropriate measures are being taken to obtain consent or assent of patients, in particular those patients who are minors and who are a particularly vulnerable population [4–6]. In addition, an oncofertility body should consider the psychologically refractory state many patients or family members have after learning they have or their child has cancer.…”