Fertility preservation is the term used to describe treatment options that protect a person’s ability to conceive a child at a later time. Common reasons why people may choose to consider fertility preservation:

• Reason 1: Growing older but not yet ready for a baby
• Reason 2: Undergoing radiation treatment
• Reason 3: Facing surgery that could impact fertility
• Reason 4: Diagnosed with a genetic condition that may decrease fertility
• Reason 5: Undergoing chemotherapy

Fertility preservation can be completed in a short period of time, which means patients can continue to move forward with treatment for cancer or other conditions without long delays.

Treatments available for fertility preservation include:

• Embryo freezing
• Egg freezing
• Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (freezing)
• Hormone therapy
• Sperm banking
• Testicular sperm extraction (TESE)
• Testicular tissue cryopreservation (freezing)

Choosing a Fertility Preservation Method

Each person and circumstance is unique. Depending on sex, age and medical condition, as well as timing to start treatments, you may have more than one reasonable option. If you are considering fertility preservation, make an appointment with a fertility specialist. Your specialist can review your situation, discuss your options and work with you to make the best decision.

To learn more about your options, visit fertility.nm.org.