How Chemotherapy Affects Sperm Count and Fertility

How Chemotherapy Affects Sperm Count and Fertility

Though fairly rare overall, testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer among men 15 to 34 years of age. It is also one of the most treatable forms, with a cure rate of about 96% when caught in its early stages. Until recently, not much was known about the effects of treatment on male fertility. But according to a new study published in the Annals of Oncology, there is good news for men who must undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy to treat testicular cancer.

This research showed that one round of post-operative chemotherapy or radiotherapy did not reveal long-term negative effects on the sperm counts of the 182 men who participated in the study. This offers a positive outlook for men who want to have children after successfully treating their testicular cancer.

Men with more advanced forms of cancer, or those who require multiple rounds of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, may want to consider storing sperm prior to surgery. This can offer more choice in the future in case you experience complications from either surgery or the treatment.

To learn more about storing sperm, contact our clinic at 602-888-7255 or send us a message.