Cancer & Fertility Preservation

Cancer treatment can have a profound impact on fertility, creating a challenging dilemma for many women and couples facing a diagnosis. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the realities of cancer and empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their reproductive futures. Understanding the effects of treatment, options to preserve fertility, and the emotional benefits of being proactive allows you to navigate your fertility journey with confidence and hope.

Understanding Cancer Treatments and Their Impact on Fertility 

Chemotherapy, radiation and surgery can all have a negative impact on fertility. Chemotherapy damages both egg and sperm reproductive cells, and impacts hormonal balances, making it harder for couples to conceive. When hormones are imbalanced, ovulation and sperm production are reduced. Direct exposure to radiation can also cause temporary or permanent damage. And depending on the cancer and surgery performed, an individual may have to have their reproductive organs removed. Some cancer treatments can also deplete a woman’s ovarian reserve. 

About 50% of women under 40 experience fertility impairment after chemotherapy for breast cancer. Studies also show that 30-70% of cancer survivors face fertility challenges depending on treatment type and cancer severity. 

These statistics aren’t meant to increase anxiety or create a sense of doom, but rather to highlight the fact that men and women going through cancer treatments are not alone. Their struggles with fertility post-treatment are normal, and there are options available to support their dreams of parenthood. By understanding these statistics and options in advance, individuals and couples can seek support and guidance from a fertility specialist. 

Options for Fertility Preservation Pre-Cancer Treatment

Fertility solutions are not one-size-fits-all. A fertility specialist will work with individuals and couples to create a plan that takes into account the woman’s age, health conditions, lifestyle, cancer, treatment, and fertility goals. 

Egg Freezing 

The egg freezing process stimulates the woman’s ovaries to produce multiple eggs per cycle. The harvested frozen eggs can be kept for years, preserving their quality until the woman is ready to pursue IVF. The ideal candidate for this procedure is a woman under the age of 35 who’s preparing for cancer treatment that could damage her ovarian reserve. 

Embryo Freezing 

A common solution for couples is embryo freezing, a process with higher success rates compared to individual egg freezing. Embryos are shared property, so couples should be certain about their long-term relationship status before considering this solution.

Ovarian Tissue Freezing 

A less common solution requires the removal and freezing of ovarian tissue that can later be implanted to help restore fertility. Advancements in technology have made it a promising option for prepubescent girls and those unable to undergo hormonal stimulation.

Sperm Banking

Men preparing to undergo cancer treatment may consider banking their sperm, which requires collecting and preserving sperm until the man is ready to take the next step toward conceiving a child. 

The Importance of Timing and Decision-Making 

Fertility preservation must be acted upon before treatment or surgery to ensure the best outcome, as delays can have widespread impacts on both fertility and treatment. Once patients determine that cancer treatment is their next step, they should discuss their fertility concerns and options with their oncologist and a fertility specialist. A fertility team can also provide the necessary emotional and psychological support.

There are also financial considerations to discuss. Together, cancer and fertility treatments can accumulate significant costs. The team at Reproductive Health & Wellness will help Individuals and couples pursue insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and financing options that will help reduce stress and anxiety. 

Resources and Support 

Going through cancer and fertility treatments can feel isolating, and it’s essential to seek out a supportive community. Organizations like Fertile Hope and Livestrong Fertility provide information, emotional support and financial assistance to cancer patients concerned about fertility. Couples should talk about their feelings and preferences regarding fertility preservation before treatment begins, and decide together on a future fertility plan. 

Navigating Cancer Treatment and Fertility 

Navigating a cancer diagnosis is incredibly challenging, especially when it comes to added concerns about fertility. At RHWC we specialize in helping individuals and couples explore their fertility preservation options. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you have the support you need. 

Don’t let a cancer diagnosis derail your dreams of parenthood. Reach out to Reproductive Health & Wellness to discuss your fertility preservation options today.