Fertility Preservation in Childhood Cancer

Cancer treatment today is more targeted and effective than in years past. But surgery, radiation and chemotherapy can all affect future fertility. Also, some cancers can damage organs and leave survivors infertile.

With more children surviving cancer than ever before, doctors need to consider ways to preserve fertility before treatment begins. Some methods are available to minimize the effects of chemotherapy or radiation on the body. The reproductive organs may be shielded from the effects of radiation, and medications that are less likely to cause infertility may be used in certain cases. However, some patients are still at risk for being infertile after the treatments they receive. Luckily, we are able to offer many patients the ability to store sperm, eggs or reproductive tissue for future use.