Having Children
Some cancer treatments can affect the ability to have children. While most do not, some may stop the chances of having children either during or after treatment. This can affect both men and women. It is not always obvious or well-known which types of cancer and treatment can impact upon fertility, so it is important to ask about this when talking with your Doctor or Nurse Specialist.
This may change life plans. You may be asked by a health professional to make decisions about fertility before the treatment begins. You may not even be in a relationship or planning to have a family, but if the treatment will affect your fertility, you may still be asked to make decision. This can be really difficult to think about when you are already having to deal with having cancer.
You can read Bethany’s and Dara's experiences:
Bethany’s story
‘I’m too young to start thinking about a family. Wasn’t even on my mind. Then I was told what the chances are if I had one ovary removed. At that point, I had to think about my future. It just didn’t seem real. One day, I am diagnosed with cancer, the next the doctors were talking to me about fertility.’
Dara’s story
‘When I was first diagnosed, I hadn't realised my type of cancer could impact my ability to have children. My nurse explained that usually it wouldn't but because of where it was located, the radiotherapy to treat it could make me infertile. I am so glad they spoke to me about that. I was able to store my sperm and soon we will be welcoming a beautiful little boy.’
If questions about fertility are troubling you, the following things may help:
- Ask you cancer doctor or nurse about fertility if they haven’t raised it with you. It is important to talk to a health professional early on if you may wish to have children in the future.
- If you or your partner would like to find out more information about fertility, visit Fertility | Macmillan Cancer Support, or call the Macmillan Help Line on 0808 808 0000, 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm.