So-called gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) are used to “immobilize” the ovaries during chemotherapy, which is hoped to protect the ovaries. At present, however, it is unclear by which mechanism this effect could be achieved.

Based on current studies, it is believed that the administration of GnRHa (e.g., as a monthly injection) beginning shortly before and continued during chemotherapy reduces the risk of premature ovarian function loss.

However, further studies are needed to determine whether this effect is real and whether a possible positive effect on ovarian function can be demonstrated in the long term.

Due to these uncertainties, if desired and possible, the administration of a GnRHa should not be performed alone but should be combined with another fertility preserving measures.

Detailed information and a bibliography can be found in the FertiPROTEKT booklet “Indikation und Durchführung fertilitätsprotektiver Maßnahmen bei onkologischen und nicht-onkologischen Erkrankungen”, 2nd revised edition 2020, which was written by members of the FertiPROTEKT Netzwerk e.V. and is available free of charge (in German).

(Chap. 3.6)

An english version can be bought: Fertility Preservation in Oncological and Non-Oncological Diseases a practical guide by Michael von Wolff & Frank Nawroth ISBN 978-3-030-47567-3 from Springer.com

Part III.VI page 215ff