BRCA1 or two mutation carriers have an increased risk of developing breast
and ovarian cancer. Moreover, they may also have reduced oocyte reserve, occult
primary ovarian insufficiency, decreased fertility, poorer response to ovarian
stimulation and earlier age at menopause. Even if these associations are still
controversial, carriers should be properly informed in order to program motherhood
and fertility preservation when appropriate.
Women with Lynch syndrome (LS) have an increased risk of developing endometrial
cancer at an early age and a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer. Thus, the
promotion of early parity with subsequent hormonal contraception or prophylactic
hysterectomy after completing childbearing should be discussed during counseling.
Keywords: BRCA, Breast cancer, Counseling, Endometrial cancer, Fertility, Fertility preservation, Infertility, Lynch Syndrome, Ovarian cancer.
