Fertility and Sexual Side Effects in People with Cancer
Some cancers and cancer treatments can affect your sex life (sexuality) and your ability to have children (fertility). Some people feel uneasy talking about these issues. But it’s an important conversation to have. Learn more about fertility, sex, and sexuality during and after cancer treatment, and how to start the conversation with your cancer care team.
Cancer and Sexuality
Sex, sexuality, and intimacy are important for people with cancer. Learn how to talk to your doctors, caregivers, and partners about sexuality and cancer.
Cancer and Fertility
Cancer and cancer treatment might affect your ability to have children. Learn how and why this happens, and options you might have to preserve your fertility before, during, and after treatment.
Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
We use the terms "male" and "female" to refer to sex assigned at birth. But we recognize not everyone's gender identity fits these categories.
If you are transgender or gender non-conforming, your fertility preservation options will be based on the reproductive organs you were born with. Your options will also depend on whether you've started gender affirming hormones or other procedures.
Talking to Your Cancer Care Team
If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, you might need to be the one to start the conversation about your fertility. Studies show that many doctors and nurses don't know the right questions to ask.
The more information you can give your cancer care team, the more they will be able to help you get the personalized care you need. This includes information about your sexual orientation, your gender identity, what sex you were at birth, how you describe yourself now, what organs you were born with, and any hormones or gender-affirming procedures you've received.
