A new study published in Fertility and Sterility found an increased risk of ovarian cancer associated with some medications commonly used in IVF and IUI (especially hCG and Clomid). The study followed women over 30 years, having undergone these procedures in the 1960’s and 70’s. One should note that the techniques and drugs used today are not all the same, so the current risk is relatively unknown.
 
A number of years ago, a patient in her early 30’s came to us after having undergone multiple failed IVF cycles with “unexplained infertility”. Fortunately, when she came to see us, she also went to her Family Medicine doctor who was concerned about her repeated hormonal exposure. The physician strongly encouraged her to get breast imaging studies done. They found breast cancer in a very early stage and immediately had it surgically removed. After that, she got pregnant (with another IVF cycle) and now has a lovely child and is in good health.
 
Everything in life is weighing benefits and risks. While many things have associated risks, it is prudent to mitigate the risk factors when possible. To help minimize the risks for our patients, our cancer specialist Steve Gomberg, developed prevention and detoxification regimens. These are evidence based methods (shown in clinical trials to help inhibit reproductive cancers), and are customized to the individual according to their history and physical findings.
 
Also, cancers don’t necessarily show up so quickly after exposure to initiating events. In this study they followed patients for 30 years. Therefore, if you have undergone conventional reproductive therapies in the past, it would be worthwhile to consider taking steps to minimize your risks.
 
Fertil Steril. 2009 Apr;91(4):1152-8. Epub 2008 Apr 18