Who should consider fertility preservation, when is the right time, and what are the risks? In this episode of BackTable OBGYN, Dr. Amy Park interviews Dr. Mindy Christianson, the section head of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the Cleveland Clinic, who shares how fertility preservation is evolving for patients planning families and those facing fertility-impacting treatments.

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. Christianson discusses her journey into the field of fertility preservation, inspired by an early encounter with a breast cancer patient. The conversation covers various aspects of fertility preservation, including the preservation of eggs, embryos, ovarian and testicular tissue, and planned fertility preservation. Dr. Christianson elaborates on the protocols, patient demographics, and the evolving collaboration between oncology and reproductive endocrinology. The discussion also highlights technologies like ovarian tissue transplantation and in vitro maturation, as well as practical tips for healthcare providers on improving patient access to fertility preservation services.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
03:34 - Understanding Fertility Preservation
07:56 - Consultation Process for Fertility Preservation
17:36 - Advancements in Egg Freezing Technology
25:55 - Egg Freezing Recommendations
26:34 - Collaboration Between Oncology and REI
26:52 - Pediatric Oncology and Fertility Preservation
28:58 - Ovarian Tissue Transplantation
33:17 - Uterine Transposition Surgery
40:05 - Gene Editing and Fertility Preservation
43:01 - Financial and Emotional Aspects of Fertility Preservation
48:02 - Practical Advice for OBGYNs
51:12 - Resources and Final Thoughts

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RESOURCES

Livestrong Fertility
https://livestrong.org/how-we-help/livestrong-fertility/

Resolve: The National Infertility Association
https://resolve.org/

Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology
https://www.sart.org/

American Society for Reproductive Medicine
https://www.asrm.org/