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Updated: May 3, 2026

Fertility Preservation in Patients with Severe Ovarian Dysfunction
Published on: March 25, 2021
The importance of fertility preservation in cancer patients
Allan Anthony Pacey1, Christine Eiser
1University of Sheffield - Human Metabolism, Level 4, The Jessop Wing Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, UK.
Abstract:
The potential risks of anti-cancer therapy for male and female fertility are well understood, yet evidence suggests that fewer patients than predicted actually preserve their fertility before therapy begins. Studies of post-pubertal males and females suggest that the approach of health professionals in oncology is vital in facilitating successful sperm and egg banking. For men, this seems to be compounded by a general lack of understanding about their personal risk of infertility. Those involved in delivering anticancer therapy therefore have a vital role to play in providing timely information and facilitating efficient referral to fertility services. In the future, this is likely to become more important if new fertility preservation strategies such as ovarian and testicular tissue banking become more routinely used, with implications for both pre- and post-pubertal individuals.
Insights
Oncology patients often forgo fertility preservation due to poor understanding of risks and limited physician guidance. Improving patient education and referral processes is crucial for successful fertility banking before cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Anti-cancer therapies pose significant risks to male and female fertility.
- Fertility preservation is underutilized among cancer patients despite known risks.
- Patient understanding of personal infertility risk and available options is often inadequate.
Discussion:
- Male patients often lack awareness of their personal infertility risk.
- Effective communication and timely referrals by oncology teams are vital for successful fertility banking.
- Addressing patient understanding and professional guidance is key to improving fertility preservation rates.
Key Insights:
- Despite known risks, fewer cancer patients preserve fertility than predicted.
- Proactive patient education and streamlined referral processes are essential.
- Oncologists' role is critical in guiding patients toward fertility preservation options.
Outlook:
- Emerging techniques like ovarian and testicular tissue banking will increase the importance of fertility preservation.
- Future strategies need to consider both pre- and post-pubertal individuals.
- Enhanced collaboration between oncology and reproductive specialists is anticipated.
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