Sperm banking and assisted reproduction treatment for couples following cancer treatment of the male partner

In recent years, the survival of young males suffering from cancer has been improved. Development of new techniques such as IVF and intracytoplasmic s perm injection enables even low quality spermatozoa to be used successfully . It is possible therefore to preserve fertility potential of cancer patien ts before embarking on adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Recognizing the importance of protecting the fertility potential of these young males, we present our recommendations for sperm cryopreservation based on the 11 y ear experience of Bourn Hall and the British Joint Council for Clinical Onc ology consultation report. This paper discusses the options available for p atients who recover from cancer to become fathers, In many cases patients a re concerned about possible abnormalities and teratogenic risks to their fu ture children who have been conceived naturally or by fertility treatment. The data available in the literature may reassure the medical community tha t there is no such increased risk. However, due to the relatively small num ber of children born after such treatment, a long-term follow-up is require d. There is an ongoing debate regarding the justification for the programme due to the small number of patients who make use of their banked spermatoz oa. The authors believe in the importance of protecting the fertility poten tial of cancer patients, enabling them to father their genetic children in the future while fighting their illness.