IMPACT OF CANCER ON FEMALE FERTILITY: INTEGRATIVE INSIGHTS FROM MODERN MEDICINE AND AYURVEDA

Dr. Pallavi Saykhedkar, Dr. Vishakha Pachore, Dr. Prathamesh Sable

ABSTRACT

Cancer incidence among women of reproductive age has increased due to lifestyle factors, raising
concerns
regarding fertility preservation and reproductive health. Both malignancy and its treatments including
chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy, and surgery can lead to ovarian insufficiency, diminished ovarian
reserve, menstrual irregularitie s, and psychological distress, significantly impacting quality of life. Modern
reproductive medicine offers strategies such as oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, as well as
gonadotropin releasing hormone analogues and assisted reproductiv e technologies, to mitigate fertility loss.
Ayurveda, with its holistic framework, conceptualizes fertility through the balance of Doshas, nourishment of
Dhatus, Agni, Ojas, and integrity of Artava and Kshetra. Rasayana therapy, Vata Pitta pacification, Ar tava
promoting herbs, lifestyle regulation, and Satvavajaya Chikitsa for mental resilience provide potential supportive
interventions for fertility preservation and restoration. Integrative oncology approaches combining evidence based
Ayurvedic practices w ith conventional medicine show promise in improving reproductive outcomes, mitigating
treatment related adverse effects, and supporting psychosocial well being. This review critically evaluates the
impact of cancer on female fertility from both modern biom edical and Ayurvedic perspectives, highlighting
opportunities for integrative care, gaps in evidence, and directions for future research.

Keywords: Female fertility, Cancer, Oncofertility, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, Premature ovarian insufficiency, Ovari an reserve, Ayurveda, Rasayana therapy, Artava, Dosha balance, Integrative oncology, Satvavajaya Chikitsa.