For many cancer patients, fertility may not be the first thing on their minds—but it’s an important part of life after treatment. Advances in fertility preservation now mean that a cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to close the door on future parenthood.
How Cancer Treatments Affect Fertility
Cancer itself doesn’t always affect fertility—but treatments often do.
- Chemotherapy: Can damage the ovaries, reduce ovarian reserve, or cause early menopause.
- Radiation: Especially to the pelvis, can harm the uterus or ovaries.
- Surgery: May remove reproductive organs (e.g., hysterectomy or oophorectomy).
- Hormonal therapy: May suppress ovarian function for long periods.
The impact depends on your age, the type of cancer, and the treatment plan. That’s why timing is critical—fertility preservation is usually discussed before treatment begins.
Options for Fertility Preservation
For Women
- Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)
- Mature eggs are collected and frozen for future use.
- Works well if there’s time before chemotherapy starts.
- Embryo Freezing
- Eggs are fertilised with partner or donor sperm before freezing.
- Requires having a partner or being comfortable with donor sperm.
- Ovarian Tissue Freezing
- A portion of ovarian tissue is removed and frozen.
- Still considered emerging but can be an option when there’s no time for egg collection.
For Men
- Sperm Freezing
- Semen is collected and frozen before treatment.
- A simple, quick procedure with high success rates.
- Surgical Sperm Retrieval
- If ejaculation isn’t possible, sperm can sometimes be retrieved directly from the testicles.
How Quickly Can Preservation Be Done?
Cancer treatment is often urgent—but fertility preservation can usually be completed within 10–14 days for women (an egg freezing cycle) or within 24–48 hours for men (sperm freezing).
In some cases, fertility doctors and oncologists work together to fast-track the process so cancer treatment isn’t delayed.
Emotional Considerations
Hearing the word cancer is overwhelming enough—adding fertility decisions on top can feel like too much. But many survivors later say that preserving their fertility gave them hope: something to look forward to beyond treatment.
It’s normal to feel:
- Rushed: Decisions must often be made quickly.
- Conflicted: Balancing survival with future parenthood.
Hopeful: Fertility preservation can be a reminder that cancer is a chapter, not the whole story.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Will my cancer treatment affect my fertility?
- What preservation options are possible given my timeline?
- How quickly can we begin egg, embryo, or sperm freezing?
- What are the success rates for fertility preservation at my age?
- Are there financial assistance programs available for cancer patients?
Important Disclaimer
Fertility preservation for cancer patients may not be available in all countries, and options like embryo freezing or ovarian tissue freezing are subject to local laws and medical regulations. This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical or legal advice. Always consult both your oncologist and a licensed fertility specialist before making decisions.