Endometrial Cancer in Reproductive Age: Fertility-Sparing Approach and Reproductive Outcomes

SIMPLE SUMMARY: In this paper we addressed the challenges encountered by women diagnosed with endometrial cancers during their reproductive years. Depending on the genetic profile of the endometrial cancer, these young patients may benefit from fertility-sparing strategies, including hormonal, surgical and assisted reproductive technologies. ABSTRACT: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries and approximately 7% of the women with endometrial cancer are below the age of 45. Management of endometrial cancer in young women who desire to maintain fertility presents a unique set of challenges since the standard surgical treatment based on hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy is often not compatible with the patient’s goals. A fertility-preserving approach can be considered in selected patients with early stage and low-grade endometrial cancer. An increasing amount of data suggest that oncologic outcomes are not compromised if a conservative approach is utilized with close monitoring until childbearing is completed. If a fertility-preserving approach is not possible, assisted reproductive technologies can assist patients in achieving their fertility goals.