Oncofertility refers to the medical field that bridges the specialties of oncology and reproductive endocrinology with the purpose of maximizing the reproductive potential of cancer patients and survivors. Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, may impair or destroy a person's ability to have children later in life. For women, these therapies can cause ovarian damage that can lead to genetically damage oocytes (eggs), ovarian failure, early menopause, or other reproductive problems. For men, treatments can similarly cause damage to the testes that interfere with sperm production and testosterone secretion. As cancer treatments improve and survivorship increases, fertility preservation options in women, men, and children become an increasing important topic. Fortunately, multiple treatment options exist to maximize your future fertility potential. Consultation with the reproductive endocrinologists should be done as early as possible after the diagnosis of cancer, and optimally prior to chemotherapy or pelvic radiation.

What is cervical cancer? Cancer that starts in the cervix is called cervical cancer. It is most often caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV can be passed from one person to another by skin-to-skin primarily in sexual activity. Infection with HPV is very common, and most men and women have been exposed to the virus through sexual contact, even if they have had sex only once. Cervical cancer can be prevented with the HPV vaccine. Early detection is usually possible by following recommended Pap smear and HPV testing guidelines. What are the symptoms of cervical cancer? Irregular vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding during and/or after sex Pelvic pain Abnormal vaginal discharge Changes to bowel and bladder habits (i.e., urinary frequency) What are the risk factors for cervical cancer? Risk Factors and Symptoms Treatment of Cervical Cancer Human papilloma virus infection Being sexually active at a young age Having many sexual partners Weakened immune system (HIV positive, transplant patient) Smoking cigarettes What are the preventative measures against cervical cancer? HPV vaccination No smoking Appropriately timed Pap smear and HPV testing Safer sexual practices What should be discussed with my OBGYN? Concerning symptoms such as bleeding with sex, bleeding between periods, and pelvic pain. Ask if the HPV vaccine is an option. Ask how frequently Pap smear and HPV testing should be done. If any abnormalities are found on pelvic exam, what further testing is needed. Ask to receive a copy of your Pap smear result and understand the recommended follow up. What are the treatment options for cervical cancer? Women who have been diagnosed with or who have suspected cervical cancer should be referred to a gynecologic oncologist for further evaluation to determine the optimal treatment option. Cervical cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. Our UCLA doctors are dedicated to providing patients with individualized care. Depending

For years, women who'd had a C-section were encouraged to skip vaginal deliveries altogether and schedule C-sections for all future births. But these days, a vaginal birth after cesarean (or VBAC) is considered a safe option for many women and their babies.

Abortion Facts from some one whom you can trust: When considering an abortion, it’s important that you have all the information available to make an informed decision. There are many types of abortions, and often, they depend on how far along the pregnancy is advanced.

Most people will have the strong desire to conceive a child at some point during their lifetime. Understanding what defines normal fertility is crucial to helping a person, or couple, know when it is time to seek help. Most couples (approximately 85%) will achieve pregnancy within one year of trying, with the greatest likelihood of conception occurring during the earlier months. Only an additional 7% of couples will conceive in the second year. As a result, infertility has come to be defined as the inability to conceive within 12 months. This diagnosis is therefore shared by 15% of couples attempting to conceive. We generally recommend seeking the help of a reproductive endocrinologist if conception has not occurred within 12 months. However, there are various scenarios where one may be advised to seek help earlier.

High Risk Pregnancy includes Diabebtes, High blood pressure, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, recurrent abortions or miscarriages, previous fetal demise / deaths, alcohol, cancer, kidney disease, epilepsy, multiple pregnancy, fetus having Down syndrome, Infections such as HIV or hepatitis C, cytomegalovirus (CMV), chickenpox, rubella, toxoplasmosis, and syphilis. heart valve problems, sickle cell disease, asthma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.