Every October 19, we observe World Breast Cancer Day—a date that not only raises awareness about the importance of early detection but also creates a space for reflection and support for anyone who has faced this disease directly or indirectly.
Today more than ever, science has opened new paths that allow women with breast cancer to fulfill their dream of having a baby—even after undergoing complex treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. This blog is dedicated to them. To those who fought, to those who are still fighting, and to those now wondering if cancer also means the end of their dream of becoming a mother.
Why is this day commemorated?
World Breast Cancer Day was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an annual reminder of the need to promote early detection campaigns, encourage self-examination, and increase access to diagnosis and treatment in all settings.
However, beyond the clinical focus, this day has also become a chance to talk about hope, prevention, sisterhood, and healing.
Facts we cannot ignore
In Mexico, it is the most common type of cancer among women and the leading cause of cancer-related death in women.
Around 20% of cases are diagnosed in women under 40—many of them childless.
This means thousands of women receive this diagnosis while still holding a strong desire to become mothers, without knowing what options exist to preserve or restore their fertility after treatment.
Does breast cancer affect fertility?
Yes, both the cancer itself and especially its treatments can directly impact a woman’s reproductive capacity. This happens for several reasons:
- Effect of chemotherapy
Chemotherapy directly affects the ovaries, reducing both the quantity and quality of eggs. Depending on the type and duration of treatment, it may cause premature ovarian failure or early menopause. - Pelvic-area radiotherapy
When radiation is applied near the ovaries, the risk of damage is high. This may lead to loss of ovarian function or affect the health of the uterus. - Time and delay in family planning
Many women diagnosed with breast cancer postpone motherhood for years due to the length of treatment and recovery. This often overlaps with age-related fertility decline.
But not all is lost—real options exist
At Ingenes, we understand that a breast cancer diagnosis doesn’t just affect physical health—it also disrupts life plans. That’s why we offer comprehensive fertility and genetics solutions for women who have gone through this disease or are about to start treatment.
Here are some of the alternatives that may help you have a baby after cancer:
Egg preservation before treatment
If you’ve been diagnosed but haven’t yet started chemotherapy or radiation, egg vitrification is a highly recommended option. This procedure allows for the extraction, maturation, and freezing of your eggs before treatment—preserving their quality and giving you the chance to use them later when you’re ready.
In vitro fertilization after treatment
If you’ve already completed treatment but your ovaries are still functioning, you may try to get pregnant using your own eggs through in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this process, ovulation is stimulated, eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab, and then the embryos are transferred to the uterus.
Egg donation: a chance with donor eggs
In cases where ovarian function is severely affected, egg donation may be the best path. This method uses eggs from a healthy, young donor, which are fertilized with sperm from your partner or a donor, and then transferred to your uterus.
The result is still your pregnancy, your birth, your baby.
IVF MORE®: A cutting-edge alternative for complex cases
IVF MORE® is a technique developed by Ingenes for patients with complex diagnoses or multiple failed attempts.
MORE (Magnetic Ovulatory Restoration) helps revitalize egg quality through a process that combines cellular micromanipulation, donor cytoplasm, and magnetic field stimulation—all under advanced biotechnology standards.
It’s an option that has already helped many women with a history of cancer fulfill their dream of becoming mothers.
What if the uterus was affected?
In some cancer cases—especially with recurrence or radical surgery—the uterus may be compromised. In such situations, a viable option is surrogacy, where another woman (a surrogate) carries the pregnancy for you, using your own eggs (if viable) or those of a donor.
Ingenes and its Surrogate Mexico program are fully prepared to offer this option ethically, legally, and safely—with professional support throughout the entire process.
Emotional support: just as important as medical care
We can’t talk about reproductive health after cancer without acknowledging the emotional impact. Many women feel their bodies have changed, their timelines have shifted, and their possibilities have diminished.
At Ingenes, we have a team of specialized psychologists who support our patients from the very beginning. We understand that fertility is not just a biological process—it’s a deeply emotional journey that deserves to be heard and cared for.
The importance of acting early
If you’ve recently been diagnosed or are currently in remission, the best time to consult a fertility specialist is now.
Even if you’re unsure about becoming a mom soon, preserving your eggs can give you that option in the future.
And if you’ve already undergone treatment, there are studies, alternatives, and programs specifically designed for you. At Ingenes, there’s not just one way—there are many paths to success, even when the road feels uncertain.
Cancer doesn’t define your motherhood
Breast cancer may change many things, but it doesn’t erase your desire—or your right—to have a baby. Through science, empathy, and innovation, it’s now possible to build a new story. A story where the diagnosis is not a full stop, but a starting point for a new chapter.
At Ingenes, we know what it means to turn the impossible into real stories. That’s why this World Breast Cancer Day, we don’t just honor those who fight—we also celebrate those who dream.