Hey there! We’re excited to share some amazing news about our team at the Indiana Fertility Institute! We’re welcoming Dr. Emily Carter, and guess what? We’ve been honored as Inception Fertility’s Clinic of the Year for 2025!
If you or someone you know is facing a cancer diagnosis, it can feel like a heavy burden, especially when it comes to thinking about future family plans. But here’s the good news: Your fertility journey doesn’t have to end with a cancer diagnosis. At our institute, we’re dedicated to helping you explore your options for preserving fertility during and after cancer treatments.
Understanding the Oncofertility Advantage
Oncofertility is a relatively new field that focuses on helping cancer patients preserve their ability to have children. Whether you’re undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgeries, we can help you protect your fertility. The benefits of oncofertility preservation are numerous:
- Safeguard your fertility
- Start a family when you’re ready
- Free yourself from the ticking biological clock
- Screen embryos for genetic issues
What Exactly is Oncofertility?
The term “oncofertility” was coined by Dr. Lisa Thompson in 2006. It’s all about ensuring that cancer patients receive the fertility care they need. At the Indiana Fertility Institute, we take the time to understand your unique situation and create a personalized plan that suits your needs. It’s important to have these conversations with your healthcare provider before starting treatment to keep your fertility options open.
How Can You Preserve Fertility Before Cancer Treatment?
There are several ways to preserve your fertility before diving into cancer treatments. Here are a few options available to you:
- Sperm Freezing: Also known as sperm banking, this process usually involves producing semen samples in a private setting. If there are issues with sperm production, surgical retrieval methods can be explored. Once processed, these samples are frozen for future use in procedures like IUI or IVF.
- Egg Freezing: This cutting-edge technique allows women to freeze their eggs. The process typically takes about two weeks and employs a fast-freezing method called vitrification. The frozen eggs can be stored until you’re ready to use them, which is great because you don’t need a partner right away.
- Embryo Freezing: Embryo banking involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a lab, creating embryos that can be frozen and used later in IVF. Working closely with your oncology team is essential during this process.
Learn More About Our Oncofertility Program
Your fertility journey is deeply personal, and so is our approach to care. If you’re interested in learning more, chat with one of our fertility specialists about how we can help you achieve your fertility goals.
Additionally, you might want to check out our blog on cramps and contractions after sex during pregnancy for more insights. And if you’re exploring options, look into this at-home insemination kit to see if it might be right for you. For additional information on infertility, visit this excellent resource.
Summary
At the Indiana Fertility Institute, we’re committed to guiding cancer patients through their fertility preservation options with compassion and expertise. With advancements in oncofertility, you can safeguard your future family plans even in the face of a cancer diagnosis.