Fertility and cancer

Cancer and its treatment may cause fertility problems. This will depend on the type of cancer and treatment you have. If maintaining your fertility is important to you, talk to your doctor about this BEFORE you start treatment.

Some cancer treatments can harm a developing baby. While you are receiving these treatment you should avoid becoming pregnant or gathering a child. Talk to your doctor about this. If you are pregnant or think there is a chance that you may be pregnant it is important to discuss this with your doctor.

We've collected our favourite resources for you to read, watch, listen to, download and share to better understand and manage this concern, as well as clinical services if you would prefer to speak to someone about the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.

PDF

Fertility booklet

CANCER COUNCIL VIC

We recommend this resource because...

This booklet gives a very comprehensive explanation of fertility, and although 84 page’s, you only have to read the sections that are useful to you

PDF

Prostate Cancer for LGBTIQA+ people

PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION

We recommend this resource because...

A guide on the experience of prostate cancer for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, asexual, and questioning (LGBTIQA+) and have a prostate.

PDF

Fertility - Prostate Cancer

CANCER COUNCIL NSW

We recommend this resource because...

Printable PDF on the side effects of prostate cancer treatment on fertility and possible options for fertility preservation.

PDF

Fertility - Leukemia and Lymphoma

LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

We recommend this resource because...

Has a printable factsheet on how treatment can effect fertility and options you can discuss with your medical team.

PDF

Understanding Sexual Issues Following Prostate Cancer

PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION AUSTRALIA

We recommend this resource because...

Information for men and their partners on possible side effects of prostate cancer treatment and how to manage them.

VIDEO

Fertility Preservation

BREAST CANCER NETWORK AUSTRALIA

We recommend this resource because...

In this 30-minute video, fertility specialist Kate Stern provides information and advice to help you make decisions about your fertility.

WEBSITE

COSA Guidelines for Fertility Preservation For People With Cancer

COSA & CANCER COUNCIL

We recommend this resource because...

The Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) has produced some evidence-based recommendations for health professionals on discussions around fertility preservation for people with cancer.