Impact of Cancer on Female Fertility: Integrative Insights From Modern Medicine and Ayurveda

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 irregularities, 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 reproductive 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, Artava-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 with 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 biomedical and Ayurvedic perspectives, highlighting opportunities for integrative care, gaps in evidence, and directions for future research.