How To Preserve Your Fertility During Uterine Cancer Treatments?
Table of Content
Were you aware that the USA recently saw the diagnosis of approximately 66,200 new cases of uterine cancer? Striking women primarily over the age of forty, this disease has surged in prevalence.
While women above 60 face susceptibility, those in their mid-thirties should exercise caution. Although uterine cancer is not entirely preventable, women can take steps to safeguard themselves even if afflicted. This discussion will delve into these preventive measures and more. Continue reading to explore further.
What Is Uterine Cancer?
Also known as endometrial cancer, this is a widespread disease among women. It is a cancer that affects the lining of the uterus (womb). This cancer gets triggered when the body undergoes uncontrolled growth of cells, forming tumors.
These tumors can become malignant, causing significant harm, if they are not detected in early stages. They pose a risk to fertility, hindering women from conceiving. Regular check-ups are essential for women to protect themselves from these kinds of diseases.
Symptoms Of Uterine Cancer
While most symptoms of uterine cancer can go unnoticed, they won't always show the obvious symptoms. The most common symptoms of Uterine cancer are abnormal bleeding, i.e., unscheduled heavy bleeding, post menopause bleeding or painful bleeding. Pain during sexual intercourse, urination, regular vaginal discharge, unusual bleeding from the vagina, pelvic pain, etc., are common symptoms of Uterine Cancer.
Types of Uterine Cancer
There are two types of uterine cancer. We have discussed them briefly below:
Endometrial cancer
This kind of cancer occurs on the uterus lining called the endometrium. This cancer is common and occurs in 90% of most cases.
Uterine Sarcoma
This one is rare in comparison and forms within the muscles or other tissues in the uterus.
Who Is More Susceptible To Developing Uterine Cancer?
Particularly in women beyond the forties who have undergone menopause, face an increased susceptibility to uterine cancer.
Nevertheless, the risk can escalate earlier in individuals grappling with overweight concerns, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Additionally, a familial history marked by irregular periods or infertility could elevate the likelihood of susceptibility to this disease.
Early-Stage Uterine Cancer and Fertility Preservation
Early-stage uterine cancer allows you to preserve your fertility in the long run. Women who have been diagnosed in the initial stage need conservative therapy treatments like minimally invasive or hormone therapy as they help in eradicating cancer cells while ensuring the health of the uterus. This also keeps the door open for future pregnancies.
In some cases, fertility-sparing procedures may be considered. These techniques focus on preserving the uterus while removing cancerous tissues.
Discussing these options with your medical team to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific situation and reproductive goals is essential.
Navigating the Intersection of Cancer and Fertility
Cancer and fertility preservation often intersect, posing complex challenges for individuals facing a uterine cancer diagnosis. Open communication with healthcare providers is crucial to addressing these concerns.
Fertility preservation options may include egg or embryo freezing, depending on the urgency of cancer treatment.
Embryo freezing consists of fertilising eggs with sperm. The embryos that are produced as a result are reserved for future uses.
At the same time, egg freezing allows you to freeze unfertilised eggs. These options also pave a path for you towards parenthood post uterine cancer treatments.
How To Improve Your Fertility?
There are certain steps you can take to improve your fertility as well while battling uterine cancer. Here are a few pointers discussed below.
Avoid Gaining Weight
Monitoring and managing weight is pivotal, especially given the impact of excess weight on estrogen levels. Being overweight can lead to heightened estrogen production, potentially disrupting hormonal balance.
Regular assessments of weight and a commitment to a healthy waistline become crucial for optimizing fertility and overall well-being.
Exercise
Incorporating 30 minutes of daily exercise can significantly enhance fertility. Physical activity contributes to overall health and hormonal balance.
A moderate and consistent exercise routine stands as a beneficial ally in the journey to improve fertility.
Avoid Alcohol
Both alcohol and tobacco have been linked to fertility issues. Beyond their adverse impact on fertility, they offer no health benefits. Eliminating these substances from your lifestyle contributes to improved fertility and fosters a healthier overall existence.
A conscious effort to remove these elements can pave the way for a more robust reproductive health journey.
Manage Stress Levels
Being extremely stressed can cause infertility, too. That’s why working on stress reduction and management is essential. Doctors have also suggested getting enough sleep and good therapy to combat these concerns.
Seek Professional Guidance
Navigating fertility concerns amid uterine cancer warrants professional guidance. Consulting with fertility specialists and healthcare providers allows for personalized insights and recommendations tailored to your specific situation.
These experts can offer valuable advice on optimizing fertility while undergoing cancer treatments, ensuring a comprehensive and well-informed approach to reproductive health.
Conclusion
Facing uterine cancer is a significant challenge, yet with timely identification and progress in medical innovations, there exists optimism for safeguarding your reproductive future.
Grasping the nuances of uterine cancer types, delving into fertility preservation alternatives, and actively seeking emotional support emerge as crucial components in navigating this intricate journey.
So make sure you are getting that at the earliest. Book a free consultation today.
if you are looking for consultation, service, or further help on your reproductive health.
