Cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Treatment for cancer includes chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which are known to have various side effects.

One of the most significant concerns for individuals undergoing cancer treatment is the impact it can have on their ability to have children.

Chemotherapy and Fertility

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. These drugs are toxic and attack rapidly dividing cells, including those in the ovaries and testes.

As a result, chemotherapy can lead to infertility in both men and women.

In women, chemotherapy can cause premature ovarian failure, where the ovaries stop producing eggs. This can lead to infertility, early menopause, and other reproductive problems such as a decreased ability to carry a pregnancy to term.

The risk of developing ovarian failure depends on the type of chemotherapy and the dose given. Women who are older and have a lower ovarian reserve are at a higher risk for developing ovarian failure after chemotherapy.

In men, chemotherapy can also reduce sperm production and quality, leading to a decreased ability to conceive. The effects of chemotherapy on fertility depend on the dose, duration, and type of drugs used.

Men who are older and have pre-existing fertility problems are at a higher risk of infertility after chemotherapy.

Radiation and Fertility

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation treatment can also damage reproductive organs and, therefore, lead to fertility problems. The degree of damage depends on the location and dose of radiation given.

In women, radiation therapy to the pelvic area can damage the ovaries, leading to infertility or premature menopause. The risk of ovarian damage increases with the total radiation dose, the fraction of the dose given, and the age of the woman.

Radiation therapy can also cause scarring, which can affect the uterus’s ability to support a pregnancy.

In men, radiation therapy to the pelvic area can damage the testes, leading to decreased sperm production and quality. The effects on fertility depend on the dose of radiation and the age of the man at the time of treatment.

Men who receive high doses of radiation are more likely to experience complete infertility.

Fertility Preservation Options

Fertility preservation options are available for individuals who want to preserve their ability to have children before undergoing cancer treatment. These options include:.

Egg or embryo freezing: Women can undergo egg retrieval prior to cancer treatment and have their eggs frozen for later use. Alternatively, eggs can be fertilized with sperm to create embryos, which can be frozen and used later.
Sperm banking: Men can bank their sperm before cancer treatment. The sperm is frozen and can be used later for assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Ovarian tissue freezing: Ovarian tissue can be removed and frozen before cancer treatment. After treatment, the tissue can be transplanted back into the woman’s body, allowing for the resumption of ovarian function.

It is essential to discuss these options with a healthcare provider before cancer treatment begins to determine what the best course of action is for each individual.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can have a significant impact on fertility in both men and women. It is essential to discuss fertility preservation options with a healthcare provider before cancer treatment begins.

With the advancements in technology, there are multiple options available, including egg or embryo freezing, sperm banking, and ovarian tissue freezing.