From the Research
For patients with Turner syndrome who have had ovarian tissue preserved, there is no definitive time limit on when they can use this tissue to attempt pregnancy, though earlier use may be more successful, as supported by the most recent study in 2023 1. The preserved tissue can potentially remain viable for many years when properly cryopreserved. When a patient decides to pursue pregnancy, the preserved ovarian tissue can be thawed and either reimplanted (autotransplantation) or used for in vitro maturation of eggs. Success rates depend on several factors including the patient's age at tissue collection, the amount and quality of tissue preserved, and the preservation techniques used. Younger age at collection typically yields better outcomes, as noted in a review of the literature in 2022 2. Before attempting pregnancy, patients should undergo comprehensive medical evaluation including cardiac assessment, as Turner syndrome is associated with cardiovascular risks that can be exacerbated during pregnancy, as discussed in a study from 2022 3. Hormone replacement therapy will likely be needed before and during the pregnancy process. The procedure remains experimental with limited success rates, so patients should work closely with reproductive endocrinologists and high-risk obstetricians who have experience with Turner syndrome to determine the optimal timing for their individual situation, as recommended in a review from 2016 4. It is also important to consider the potential risks and benefits of fertility preservation options, including oocyte donation and gestational surrogacy, as discussed in a study from 2023 1. Ultimately, the decision to attempt pregnancy using preserved ovarian tissue should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual patient's medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, and personal preferences, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study in 2023 1.
Some key points to consider include:
- The importance of comprehensive medical evaluation, including cardiac assessment, before attempting pregnancy
- The need for hormone replacement therapy before and during the pregnancy process
- The potential risks and benefits of fertility preservation options, including oocyte donation and gestational surrogacy
- The importance of working closely with reproductive endocrinologists and high-risk obstetricians who have experience with Turner syndrome to determine the optimal timing for individual situations. As noted in a study from 2008 5, ovarian failure is a typical feature in Turner's syndrome, and the majority of follicles disappear prematurely, making fertility preservation options crucial for patients who wish to become pregnant. However, with the advancement of medical technology and the increasing success rates of fertility preservation options, patients with Turner syndrome now have more options available to them, as supported by the most recent study in 2023 1.