Chemotherapy is one of the most commonly used cancer fighting treatments out there. It can be very effective in getting rid of cancer and helping people reclaim their lives. However, some chemotherapy treatments can have a negative impact on the reproductive system. Today we are going to talk a little more about chemotherapy and its effect on fertility. Claim Your 20 Free Pregnancy Tests – Click Here
Not all chemotherapy drugs are created equal. Some chemotherapy drugs have a minimal impact on the reproductive system and fertility, while others have devastating consequences. Some of the most damaging chemotherapy drugs that are used today are Cyclophosphamide (used for leukemia, breast, and ovarian cancers), Ifosfamide (used for Sarcomas), Nitrogen Mustard (used for Hodgkin’s disease), and Thiotepa (used for breast cancers).
Chemotherapy affects male fertility much differently than it affects female fertility. Chemo is known to lower the total number of sperm cells. It can also cause sperm cells to be unable to move, and can cause additional abnormalities in the sperm. Some chemo drugs can also be passed through the semen, so it is very important to practice safe sex during chemotherapy treatments.
Chemotherapy’s effects on female fertility can be especially damaging. It can permanently damage the ovaries, making it impossible for a woman to ever get pregnant. Periods can become very irregular and can stop during the chemo and even afterwards they may stop completely. It is possible to get pregnant while undergoing chemotherapy, but is is strongly recommended that you wait until the drugs are completely out of your system before becoming pregnant. Some chemo drugs can cause miscarriage, or severe birth defects, so it is very imperative to wait until they are out of your system to become pregnant.
It is very important to take your feelings into consideration when dealing with how chemotherapy will affect your future fertility. Discussions with your partner are very important during this time. It can also help to see a professional counselor or therapist to discuss how you are going to deal with these feelings. Also be sure to talk at length with your doctor so you completely understand your risks and what your options are. Your doctor can tell you the truth about your options and you may even be eligible to “bank” some of your eggs or sperm to use after your treatment if that is a concern. Your doctor will be able to give you more information about those options, if your ultimate future goal is a positive pregnancy test. Best of luck!
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