Fertility preservation is the process of saving or protecting eggs, sperm, or reproductive tissues so that a person can have children in the future. It's not just for those undergoing cancer treatment.

Several techniques are available, including freezing sperm, eggs (oocyte cryopreservation), embryos, and more innovative methods like ovarian transposition. Each method's purpose and suitability depends on the individual's circumstances, such as their health status or treatment type.

Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and certain surgeries, can significantly affect your fertility. Discussing fertility preservation with your doctor before starting treatment gives you a better chance to have biological children in the future. Some methods need to be timed with menstrual cycles or completed before treatment begins, making early conversations crucial.

The primary benefit is the potential to have biological children in the future, even if your fertility is compromised. However, the procedures come with risks such as infection, bleeding, or complications related to the freezing and thawing process. Discussing these with your healthcare provider to make a well-informed decision is important.

Look for healthcare providers and fertility specialists with experience in fertility preservation, especially if you have specific medical conditions like cancer. Fertility clinics with the necessary technology and support staff ensure your specimens are safely stored and handled.

Fertility preservation can be costly, with expenses varying by procedure, medication, and storage fees. Success rates also differ based on age, health status, and the specific preservation method. Discuss these aspects with your fertility specialist to understand the financial and success rate expectations.

Absolutely! Options like using donor eggs or embryos, adoption, and exploring cost-effective solutions such as donor embryo adoption are available.