Infertility after treatment
Even if you aren’t planning a family, infertility after treatment can impact your mental and emotional health... and that’s okay. You aren’t alone, and we’re here to help.
When you're diagnosed with cancer, having kids might be the last thing on your mind - or the idea of having the option taken off the table might be completely devastating. Changes to your fertility might be permanent or temporary, depending on your age, the treatment you have and other factors.
If you’re experiencing fertility issues because of cancer treatments, you might be experiencing a lot of emotions. When you’re in your 20s or 30s and dealing with cancer, the emotional impact of difficulties with fertility can be different to those from other age groups.
You might have wanted to have kids all your life, or you might be keen to have more children. You might feel getting through treatment is more of a priority than having kids. Or you might accept the news to begin with, but find it more difficult to cope once you’re finished treatment.
It’s not uncommon for people dealing with fertility issues because of cancer to feel anxious, depressed or scared about how cancer has impacted their lives. It’s common to feel a loss of control or find it impacts your self confidence.
Getting support
It’s OK to get support if your emotional or mental wellbeing has taken a hit because of problems with your fertility. Chatting to a close friend or relative can be a good place to start. Your health team might also know about counselling and support groups to connect you to people with similar experiences.
You may also want to speak to a therapist or counsellor who specialises in fertility problems. Your medical team might have suggestions, or you Welldoing can help you find a specialist.
Podcasts like AfterThoughts, You Me and the Big C and That Cancer Conversation may also touch on stories of fertility. It can be helpful to hear other people’s perspectives.
If you’re looking to connect with others for their experiences around fertility, join our online community. You’ll find people who’ve been where you are.
Check out our fertility topics for more information:
Trekstock Talks - Fertility in men
Trekstock Talks - Thinking about fertility
Trekstock Talks - Cancer, sex and fertility
Trekstock Talks - Fertility myth busting