Preserving Fertility and Quality of Life in Female Survivors of Childhood Cancer in Belgium Evaluating Effects of Alkylating Agents and Ovarian Tissue Preservation

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on female survivors of pediatric cancer who are at least 18 years old. It aims to evaluate how low to intermediate doses of alkylating agents, with or without ovarian tissue freezing cryopreservation, affect ovarian function and fertility. The study also seeks to discover new epigenetic markers to predict the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency. A national team of pediatric oncologists, gynecologists, and endocrinologists is leading this project to improve fertility preservation and quality of life for these survivors. Participants include female childhood cancer survivors and controls who will undergo evaluations at medically assisted reproduction centers. The project involves several consultations an initial visit for informed consent and questionnaire completion about fertility and parenthood, a second visit for clinical, biological, and ultrasound assessments after a hormone-free period, and a third visit to discuss results. Blood samples will be collected for epigenetic studies, and clinical data from the Paediatrics Late Effects database will complement the research. Throughout the study, participants will provide detailed medical and lifestyle information, including cancer treatment history, fertility preservation, menstrual cycles, hormone levels, and ovarian reserve measured by ultrasound. Researchers will monitor fertility outcomes such as menopause rates, premature ovarian insufficiency, pregnancy outcomes, and use of medical help to conceive. The study also tracks irregular menstruation and ovulatory disorders. Participants may receive compensation, and the study is planned to continue until 2028.

Fertility and Ovarian Reserve in Female Childhood Cancer Survivors