Fertility preservation for cancer patients

For young adults undergoing cancer treatment, the effect of medications and surgical procedures on their future fertility is a concern. There are options available to preserve fertility, but a new study indicates that patient–and particularly female patients–are often unaware of and unwilling to discuss these issues.

Some cancer treatments can negatively impact fertility for patients of reproductive age. For example, a man’s fertility may be compromised if they undergo testicular radiotherapy; the treatment may harm sperm quality or quantity. For women, some drugs may impact their fertility in the short term, while other treatments may mean lifelong infertility.

Young adults undergoing cancer treatment should discuss preserving fertility with their doctors. Embryo cryopreservation, gonadal shielding, or egg storage may be options. At Viera Fertility Center, we provide fertility support at any stage of your fertility journey!

Reference:

Whiteman, H. (2015, July 27). “Awareness of fertility preservation options among younger cancer patients may be low.” Medical News Today.