Fertility After Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment can negatively impact a cancer survivor's fertility. Those who have undergone treatment are at higher risk for infertility, early onset of menopause and negative pregnancy outcomes such as difficulty getting pregnant, birth defects, genetic risks and effects on the health of their offspring. The magnitude of this issue depends on the type and stage of cancer, drugs given and cumulative dosages, radiation field, the extent of surgery, age, gender and genetic factors.
While fertility preservation may be recommended before cancer treatment, there are still many well-established fertility preservation and family building alternatives available for cancer survivors following treatment.
Established fertility preservation options include:
- Sperm cryopreservation (sperm freezing)
- Oocyte cryopreservation (egg freezing)
- Embryo cryopreservation (embryo freezing)
Common family building alternatives include:
- Embryo donation
- Egg donation
- Sperm donation
- Surrogacy
- Adoption
Talk to your health care team about what matters most to you. It is important to talk openly and honestly with your doctor about your wishes and plans for your life after treatment and even before treatment. When it comes to fertility, it is especially important to start taking steps early to know and understand important factors that will need to be considered to decide what is best for you and your care.
Learn More about Fertility Options and Risks
- Download the "Fertility Risks Related to Cancer Treatment: What Are My Options and How Can I Plan for the Future?" in English and Spanish.
- For resources and guidance on how to pursue fertility preservation, contact your clinical social worker.
- Download the List of Fertility Resources.