IVF is a medical procedure that helps couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
How does it work?
During IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and then transferred to the uterus.
Fertility Drugs and Ovulation
Before we delve into the specifics, let’s understand the role of fertility drugs in IVF. These medications stimulate ovulation, helping the ovaries produce and mature eggs. Common fertility drugs include:
- Clomiphene: An oral pill that induces ovulation.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Administered via injection to promote egg development.
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Injected to trigger ovulation.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: These are also given by injection.
- Bromocriptine or cabergoline: Oral pills that regulate hormone levels.
Now, let's talk about how IVF might be connected to ovarian cancer in this blog.
Is there a connection between IVF and ovarian cancer?
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that IVF is a direct cause of ovarian cancer. But it might potentially increase the chances of developing ovarian cancer. Very few women might develop ovarian cancer who have gone through more than 4 IVF cycles. IVF comes with potential risks like any other method. Studies highlight potential dangers such as ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer. The drugs used in IVF, like clomiphene citrate and gonadotropins, can overly stimulate the ovaries. This increases the chances of multiple pregnancies and raises the risk of ovarian cysts and cancer. Couples facing IVF failures may undergo additional cycles with higher drug doses. This increases the risk of IVF and ovarian cancer.
The Hormone Connection
Some cancers, including ovarian, breast, and uterine cancers, are influenced by hormones. Since fertility drugs change hormone levels, there's concern about their impact on cancer risk. Here’s what the research tells us:
- Ovarian Cancer: Having more ovulations over a lifetime is linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer. However, current evidence does not establish a direct link between fertility drugs and ovarian cancer risk. Large studies have failed to find a significant connection.
- Breast Cancer and Uterine Cancer: Fertility drugs, including estrogen-containing ones, do not appear to elevate the risk of breast or uterine cancer.
Can Age and Family History Influence Ovarian Cancer Risks After IVF?
Women with a family history of ovarian and breast cancer face a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer. This increased risk is linked to specific genetic mutations. They are passed down from parents, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
On top of that, drugs for IVF might exaggerate the chances of ovarian cancer development. The risk of ovarian cancer in women tends to increase with age. Older women have a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer compared to younger women.
Empower yourself with proactive steps to mitigate ovarian cancer risks following IVF
What Steps Can Help Reducing Risks of Ovarian Cancer after IVF?
Mitigating the risks of IVF and Ovarian cancer involves several steps:
- Successful IVF: Research suggests that giving birth after IVF may decrease the risk of ovarian cancer. Pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation appear to contribute to this protective effect. So, if you’ve had a successful IVF and subsequently given birth, it could indirectly lower your ovarian cancer risk.
- Tubal Ligation: Tubal ligation, commonly known as “getting your tubes tied.” This surgical procedure involves closing or blocking the fallopian tubes, which can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Hysterectomy: While the evidence is not entirely conclusive, some studies suggest that having a hysterectomy might also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. However, this effect may depend on factors such as your age during the operation and only if you have completed family planning.
- Oral Contraceptives: Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills) can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially for individuals without inherited gene mutations. (However, you should opt for any medications only with a doctor's recommendation.)
- Regular screening for IVF patients can be a crucial aspect of reproductive health and overall well-being.
Screening Protocols for IVF Patients: Current Recommendations
The screening for IVF patients may include:
- Ovarian reserve testing: This involves simple blood tests to check hormones. FSH, AMH, and Estradiol. This gives an idea of the number of eggs in a woman's ovaries.
- Tubal Patency Test (HyCoSy): It is a specialized ultrasound. It uses a contrast agent to evaluate if fallopian tubes are operational for IVF. Normal ultrasounds or X-rays don't provide a clear view of tube conditions.
- Semen Evaluation: The sperm sample of a male is tested for shape, motility, and concentration. In cases of male infertility, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is done.
- Prolactin Test.: Checks prolactin hormone levels in the female body. It is crucial for conception. High levels can hinder pregnancy, and test results help determine suitable drug regimens.
- Screening for Infectious Diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, Chlamydia, Rubella, and varicella.
Stay up-to-date on the latest research addressing concerns and providing insights into the IVF-ovarian cancer connection
Are Ongoing Studies Addressing Concerns about IVF and Ovarian Cancer?
Yes, ongoing studies are addressing concerns about IVF and ovarian cancer. Researchers are actively investigating the links between IVF and the risk of ovarian cancer. Some studies have suggested a possible association. While some studies have shown a stronger link. Mostly the drugs taken during IVF are found to be the risk factor. However, still more research is needed.
These studies are essential for providing more clarity. It will give more insights into whether there is a link between IVF and ovarian cancer.
References:
Do Fertility Drugs Cause Ovarian Cancer? What the Research Shows. (healthline.com)
