Manisha Koirala on not being able to conceive due to ovarian cancer: ‘There are, somewhere, unfinished things in my life…’

Actor Manisha Koirala recently admitted that she “made peace” with not being able to conceive after a battle with ovarian cancer for which she was treated during 2012-13, and subsequently recovered in 2014.

“There are, somewhere, unfinished things in my life. As you grow older, you accept your reality. There are so many dreams that you realise are not going to happen, and you make peace with that. Motherhood is one of them. It was tough getting ovarian cancer and not being able to be a mother. But I made peace with that. And I said jo ho gaya so ho gaya (what’s gone is in the past), and let me do my best with what I have,” the Heeramandi actor said in an interview with NDTV.

How does ovarian cancer affect fertility in women?

Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries, which serve as the reproductive glands responsible for storing eggs and producing female hormones. “Cancerous cells directly impact ovarian function, potentially disrupting ovulation, the crucial release of eggs needed for conception. The ability for women to conceive after ovarian cancer treatment varies depending on factors like cancer stage and type,” Dr Parul Gupta, fertility expert, Nova IVF Fertility, Vasant Vihar, said.

There can be various treatments or options to choose from in the case of ovarian cancer. “Surgery is one of them,” said Dr Swati Gaikwad, consultant obstetrician, and gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Pune.

Ovarian cancer surgery involves removing one or both ovaries, which affects the number of produced eggs. “Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy help in killing cancer cells and harm fertility levels. It is also important to note that not all women with ovarian cancer can have trouble conceiving. It depends on the individual’s immune system and the severity of cancer,” said Dr Gaikwad.

What to keep in mind?

It is natural for women undergoing ovarian cancer to have tons of questions and worries. Hence, individuals are advised to have detailed discussions with their doctors on how cancer can affect their chances of naturally conceiving a baby and ways to protect their fertility.

There are options like fertility preservation, available for women detected with ovarian cancer who in future wish to embrace motherhood. In the case of IVF procedures, women with ovarian cancer can opt for embryo or egg freezing before starting with their cancer treatment. “Adoption is still an excellent option for women or couples who want to experience parenthood amidst the chaos, offering new life to both parents and the baby. It is important to remember that ovarian cancer can be tiring and worn out certain women, making them physically and mentally exhausted,” elucidated Dr Gaikwad.

Dr Gupta shared that seeking guidance from a skilled fertility specialist early on is crucial for those interested in preserving their fertility.

Reproductive health can take a hit in some cases (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Cancer can cause various changes in individuals’ bodies making it hard for them to cope with the situation. According to Dr Gaikwad, emotional support can be valuable, easing the fight against ovarian cancer. “Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga or breathing exercises can help keep your mind calm in case of panicking situations,” said Dr Gaikwad.

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