Fertility preservation for young cancer patients

Recent advances in cryopreservation are providing effective fertility preservation options for young Canadians requiring chemotherapy for cancer. Both female and male patients can opt to freeze gametes before undergoing treatment. Embryo, oocyte, and ovarian tissue freezing are possible for females, and sperm freezing is possible for males. The decision to proceed with fertility preservation is made by taking into account the patient's age, diagnosis, oncology treatment plan, fertility status, and personal/social situation. Management should include surveillance of ovarian reserve, counseling on fertility and sexual health, and provision of egg and embryo banking in cases where the patient's reproductive lifespan is likely to be significantly reduced. Barriers to fertility preservation include a lack of awareness and the high cost of these services. A multidisciplinary approach to care, education of oncology professionals and patients on issues related to reproduction, and better funding can help ensure that cancer patients receive timely counseling and appropriate fertility preservation services.