Cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause not only physical and emotional distress but also have long-term effects on fertility.

While the connection between cancer and infertility is well-established in women, the impact on male fertility is often overlooked. In this article, we will explore the relationship between male fertility and cancer.

Understanding Male Fertility

Before delving into the connection between cancer and male infertility, let’s first understand what male fertility entails. In simple terms, male fertility refers to a man’s ability to impregnate a woman and father a child.

This relies on the production of healthy sperm, which are crucial in the reproductive process.

Sperm production occurs in the testicles and is governed by a delicate balance of hormones. Sperm are produced in tiny tubes called seminiferous tubules, within the testicles.

From there, they mature and are stored in the epididymis until ejaculation occurs. It is worth noting that various factors can impact sperm health, including lifestyle choices, age, and medical conditions.

The Effect of Cancer on Male Fertility

Cancer itself, as well as its treatment, can have a profound impact on male fertility. The relationship between the two depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, as well as the treatment modality used.

One of the primary ways cancer affects male fertility is by disrupting or damaging sperm production.

Chemotherapy drugs, radiation therapy, and surgery, commonly used to treat cancer, can harm the sperm-producing cells in the testicles, leading to impaired fertility or infertility. The degree of damage depends on various factors, including the dosage and duration of treatment, the age at the time of treatment, and the specific drugs used.

Furthermore, some cancers directly affect the male reproductive system. Testicular cancer, for example, primarily originates from the testes itself. It often necessitates surgical removal of one or both testicles, called an orchiectomy.

While this procedure is crucial for treating cancer, it leads to infertility in most cases. However, in many instances, sperm can be harvested and frozen before the surgery, enabling men to preserve their fertility for future use through assisted reproductive technologies.

Fertility Preservation Options

For men who are diagnosed with cancer and wish to preserve their fertility, various options are available.

Sperm cryopreservation: Also known as sperm banking, this method involves collecting and freezing sperm for future use. It is a simple and effective way to ensure that viable sperm are available when a man wishes to start a family.

However, it requires prior planning and coordination, as samples need to be collected before cancer treatment begins.

Testicular sperm extraction (TESE): In cases where sperm cannot be obtained through ejaculation, TESE can be performed. This surgical procedure involves retrieving sperm directly from the testicles using a needle or biopsy.

The harvested sperm can then be used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures.

Prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation: In some cases, young boys who have not yet reached puberty may be at risk of cancer treatment causing permanent infertility.

In such cases, testicular tissue can be removed and cryopreserved for future use. This experimental technique is still being researched, and its success in restoring fertility is not yet well-established.

Coping with Infertility after Cancer

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and the added concern of potential infertility can further compound the emotional distress. It is vital for men to seek support during this challenging time and explore their options.

Speaking with a reproductive specialist who can provide information about fertility preservation options and discuss the potential impact of cancer treatment on fertility is crucial.

Additionally, joining support groups or seeking counseling can help individuals and couples navigate the emotional challenges that come with infertility.

Conclusion

Male fertility and cancer are undoubtedly connected, with cancer and its treatment often leading to temporary or permanent infertility.

However, advancements in reproductive medicine and fertility preservation techniques offer hope to men diagnosed with cancer. By exploring available options and seeking appropriate support, men can take control of their fertility journey and preserve their chances of fathering a child in the future.