Understanding Fertility Preservation
Fertility preservation offers individuals the opportunity to store eggs, sperm, or reproductive tissue for future use. This option enables people to have biological children later in life, often extending fertility for many years—or even decades.
Who Should Consider Fertility Preservation?
Fertility preservation is suitable for anyone who may face challenges to their fertility due to life circumstances or medical conditions.
For example, many women choose to freeze their eggs while pursuing career or educational goals. Since fertility tends to decline after age 30, egg freezing can help preserve the chance of a healthy pregnancy later in life.
People undergoing cancer treatment may also opt to freeze sperm, eggs, or embryos beforehand. Because preservation methods differ between men and women, it’s important to consult with both a fertility specialist and oncology team before starting treatment.
Fertility preservation is also available for children diagnosed with cancer. If a child has entered puberty or is old enough to understand, discussions about fertility options should take place early. Both parental and child consent may be required for the procedure.
Potential Candidates for Fertility Preservation Include:
- Women who want children later in life
- Women with endometriosis or uterine fibroids
- Individuals with autoimmune conditions like lupus
- People with genetic disorders that affect fertility
Preservation Options Available
There are several fertility preservation methods available for both men and women. Choosing the right approach depends on personal needs and medical circumstances. A fertility specialist can help guide this decision.
For Men:
- Sperm Cryopreservation: A semen sample is collected and frozen for future use.
- Gonadal Shielding: A protective shield is used during radiation treatment to shield the testicles.
- Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE): A surgical procedure to extract testicular tissue, which is examined for sperm and frozen. This option is helpful for those unable to ejaculate or with no sperm in their semen
For Women:
- Embryo Cryopreservation: Eggs are collected, fertilized with sperm (from a partner or donor), and the resulting embryos are frozen.
- Oocyte Cryopreservation: Eggs are retrieved and frozen without fertilization for later use.
- Gonadal Shielding: A protective barrier is used during radiation to safeguard reproductive organs.
- Ovarian Transposition: The ovaries (and sometimes fallopian tubes) are surgically moved away from the radiation field to protect fertility.
- Cervical Surgery: In early-stage cervical cancer, a portion of the cervix may be removed while preserving the uterus, allowing for future pregnancy.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you’re preparing for cancer treatment or have other reasons to consider preserving your fertility, it’s important to speak with a fertility specialist as early as possible. At Nectar Gyn Fertility Centre, our experts are here to guide you through your options and support your journey every step of the way.
