Onco Fertility
Table of Contents
About Onco Fertility
Onco Fertility at NewLife Fertility Centre
Onco Fertility at NewLife is dedicated to helping cancer patients and survivors preserve their fertility before undergoing cancer treatments. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can often harm reproductive cells (eggs and sperm) and organs, leading to infertility. Early intervention and fertility preservation options are crucial for individuals who wish to maintain their ability to have biological children after treatment.
Treatment Options for Onco Patients
Sperm Cryopreservation – Sperm cryopreservation is a non-invasive and highly effective method for men to preserve their fertility before cancer treatment. This procedure allows sperm to be frozen and stored for future use.
Egg (Oocyte) Cryopreservation
Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is an advanced fertility preservation method, especially beneficial for women who do not have a partner or have concerns about ethical or religious aspects of embryo freezing. While eggs are more fragile than embryos, advances in research have made egg freezing an increasingly viable and effective option. Women can freeze their eggs for later use, providing them the flexibility to pursue pregnancy when the time is right, even after undergoing cancer treatments.
Embryo Cryopreservation
Embryo cryopreservation is the process of freezing embryos created through IVF and storing them for future use. This option requires sperm from a partner or donor for embryo creation. Cryopreserved embryos can be stored for many years and thawed when needed for IVF treatments. This method offers a high success rate for individuals and couples looking to preserve their fertility during or after cancer treatment.
Other Ways to Become a Parent
Using Donated Embryos
Embryo donation provides an alternative path to parenthood. IVF with donated embryos involves hormone treatments to prepare the uterus, followed by embryo transfer. Hormone therapy continues until the placenta functions independently, typically within 8 to 10 weeks. Success rates vary based on clinic performance and the health of the individual, with cancer survivors potentially facing different outcomes due to age and treatment effects.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy allows someone else to carry and give birth to a child on behalf of intended parents. In Canada, surrogacy is legal, but specific rules and regulations must be followed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need a medical referral to get started?
be referred by any NewLife Fertility Specialist.
Does fertility preservation guarantee future fertility?
Fertility preservation does not guarantee that you will be able to have a child in the future, but it does offer a possibility. Success rates depend on various factors such as the preservation method, age, and health status.
Is fertility preservation covered by insurance?
Fertility preservation coverage varies by insurance provider. Some private health plans may cover fertility preservation costs, while government programs like OHIP in Ontario typically do not. It’s essential to check with your insurance company for specific details.
How long can cryopreserved sperm, eggs, or embryos be stored?
We’re Here to Support You
At NewLife Fertility Centre, we are committed to helping you explore all the options available for becoming a parent. Whether through fertility preservation, surrogacy, embryo donation, or adoption, our compassionate team is here to provide support, guidance, and expert care to help you navigate your unique journey to parenthood. Contact us today to discuss your options and begin your path to a fulfilling family life.
