Fertility & Cancer Care

Planning for Cancer Care

Thousands of people in the peak of their reproductive years (from 25-35) unfortunately battle cancer every year.  In many cases, healthcare providers do not inform patients about how their illness and its treatment could adversely impact their fertility.

There are many options available, and multiple programs to offset their costs. Of course, time is of the essence in these situations. 

What are the possible impacts of cancer care on fertility?

For women, cancer treatments can sometimes cause premature menopause. It always has a negative impact on fertility, most commonly loss of ovarian follicles. Chemotherapy alone adds at least 10 years of “real age” to reproductive function. This would leave a 25-year-old woman going through chemotherapy with the reproductive profile of a 35-year-old. 

For men, cancer treatments can reduce sperm quantity and quality. 

Completing fertility preservation prior to cancer treatment is important for both men and women. 

Please inform the MCRM Fertility staff if you need Fertility Preservation for cancer care, so we can prioritize your treatment.