The founder and lead surgeon of Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology talks about positive study findings.

Lewisville, TX — A diagnosis of cancer can be devastating for anyone at any age. For women in their child-bearing years, however, the news can be an especially troubling blow if having a family down the road is a priority. While healthcare providers have tools at their disposal to help women preserve their reproductive abilities, sometimes the luxury of time for delaying treatments may not be there. New research indicates that hope may still be present even if a woman has to undergo chemotherapy before being able to take adequate measures to preserve eggs.

“The study’s findings are very encouraging for women facing breast cancer treatments,” explains Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology. “Researchers found that some women who undergo chemotherapy are able to recover about half their ovarian reserve within about 13 months after treatment ends. That means women who were unable to freeze enough, or any, oocytes prior to treatment may be able to stimulate production afterwards.”

While the study offers hope for women, researchers did note that not all women will witness a return of their ovarian reserves following treatment. It is estimated that about 80 percent will. It was also found that women who received the drug Lupron during treatment tended to have higher antral follicle counts down the road.

“The study’s findings are highly positive, but they don’t diminish the need for women and their healthcare providers to discuss family planning options prior to treatment,” says Dr. Echt. “Women need to be highly informed about measures they can take in advance of treatment to preserve fertility, such as cryopreservation. The study does offer hope for those who simply do not have the luxury of time to plan ahead before undergoing treatment.”

About Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group
The Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group has state-of-the-art facilities that offer individualized care to patients throughout North Texas. With a team of expert oncologists and other specialists on staff, the Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group treats a variety of cancers and blood disorders with an eye towards the newest advancements available in diagnostic technology and treatments.