Cancer and Cryopreservation…
Why should a woman or a man with cancer consider this?
A woman is born with all of the eggs that she will ever have, averaging 300,000 remaining eggs when she starts puberty. Certain types of chemotherapy and/or radiation localized to the pelvic region can kill or damage some or all of the eggs in the ovary. Therefore, it is often prudent to cryopreserve (freeze) eggs or embryos prior to undergoing these potentially harmful therapies in order to preserve a woman’s future ability to conceive and become pregnant.
A male produces sperm in his testes on a continual basis. Once produced, the sperm goes through 2-3 months of transport where it gains maturity and functionality. Certain types of chemotherapy and/or radiation localized to the pelvic region can damage the ability of the testes to produce and/or transport healthy sperm. Therefore, it is often prudent to cryopreserve (freeze) sperm prior to undergoing these potentially harmful therapies in order to preserve one’s future ability to conceive.
Since time is often of the essence with our oncology patients, these are top priority on FINA’s schedule. FINA works closely with your oncology team to consult with every patient desiring a consultation within 1-3 days of initial request.
You can schedule your initial consultation to discuss your current cancer treatment plan and the options available to you by calling us at 256-217-9613 or by visiting our website. 