Every February 4, World Cancer Day reminds us of something deeply human: behind every diagnosis, there is a person, a story, and plans that still matter. And among those plans, for many women (and also for many men), there’s one that often stays unspoken: being able to have a baby after treatment.
At Ingenes, we support patients who come in with a clear intention: they want to focus on their health today—without closing the door on their future. That’s why talking about cancer on this day isn’t only about prevention and early detection. It’s also about timely information, guided decisions, and how to protect what still matters to you.
This perspective aligns with the global message of World Cancer Day’s 2025–2027 campaign: placing each person and their unique experience at the center of care.
What is World Cancer Day, and why does it matter?
World Cancer Day is an international initiative observed every February 4 to raise awareness, strengthen prevention, and encourage action that improves care and reduces the burden of cancer. It is led by the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) and has been observed since 2000.
A day to talk about what many people hesitate to ask
In real life, cancer isn’t experienced only through appointments and treatments. It’s also experienced through the questions people sometimes postpone:
- “Will this affect my fertility?”
- “Will I still be able to have a baby afterward?”
- “Do I have time to do anything before treatment starts?”
These questions can feel difficult, especially right after diagnosis. But they are important. Because certain cancer treatments can affect ovarian or testicular function, and some fertility preservation options are most effective when considered before treatment begins.
Cancer and fertility: what can happen (without alarm)
Not every treatment affects fertility the same way, and not every body responds the same way. The most helpful approach is to understand the general picture: some cancer therapies may affect fertility temporarily, while others may have a longer-term impact. The effect depends on the type of medication, dosage, age, the area treated with radiation, and overall health.
Why can treatment affect fertility?
In simple terms, because it can impact:
- Ovaries (egg quantity and ovarian function; risk of reduced ovarian reserve or ovarian insufficiency).
- Uterus (in some cases, pelvic radiation may affect the uterine environment).
- Testicles (sperm production and quality, depending on the treatment).
- Hormonal regulation (hormones that help regulate cycles, ovulation, and reproductive function).
The key is not to assume the worst. The key is to do the right thing: evaluate risk and review options with a team that understands both oncology and reproductive medicine.
The most valuable factor is often time (and clear information)
In fertility preservation, there’s one idea that consistently matters: talk about it early and refer to a fertility specialist as soon as possible when someone is of reproductive age and wants the option of having a baby in the future.
When should you discuss fertility preservation?
Ideally, at diagnosis or before starting treatment, because many strategies—like freezing eggs or embryos—are typically planned before chemotherapy, radiation, or therapies that may affect ovarian or testicular function.
This does not mean delaying cancer treatment without medical guidance. It means that, with proper coordination, it’s often possible to evaluate quickly and act on time.
Common fertility preservation options that may be considered in real life
At Ingenes, when a patient comes in with a cancer diagnosis, the goal is to provide clear, realistic options—always in coordination with the oncology team.
Below are strategies commonly mentioned in medical references and clinical guidance. Whether they are appropriate depends entirely on the person’s diagnosis, timing, and medical safety.
Egg freezing
Egg freezing aims to preserve eggs for future use. It is one of the best-known fertility preservation options for women, especially when treatment may pose a risk to ovarian function.
When is it considered?
- When someone wants to preserve fertility before starting therapies that may affect ovarian function.
- When someone prefers an option that does not require creating embryos at that moment.
Embryo freezing
Embryo freezing involves creating embryos in the lab (through IVF) and preserving them for future use. This option may be considered when there is a clear plan regarding sperm (from a partner or donor) and the medical timeline allows it.
When is it considered?
- When there’s a defined decision on sperm source and the clinical plan supports moving forward before treatment.
Ovarian tissue freezing
In certain situations, preserving ovarian tissue may be considered as a way to protect fertility potential. This approach is highly case-dependent, and safety must be carefully evaluated—especially in cancers where there may be a concern about reintroducing malignant cells if tissue is later reimplanted.
Important note: This is exactly why coordination with oncology and careful case selection is essential.
Fertility preservation for men
For many men, fertility preservation may include sperm freezing before treatment begins. This can be particularly relevant when therapies may affect sperm production.
Beyond the procedure: emotional support matters, too
When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, the immediate focus is usually: “start treatment as soon as possible.” And that makes sense. But at the same time, many people experience a quiet grief about what may change in their life—including the possibility of having a baby later.
That’s why discussing fertility with sensitivity isn’t an “extra.” It’s part of human-centered care. And it aligns with the message emphasized in World Cancer Day’s campaign: care that focuses on the person—not only the diagnosis.
Having a plan can bring calm
For some women, freezing eggs or embryos isn’t only a medical decision—it’s a way to regain a sense of control when everything feels uncertain. For others, even if they ultimately choose not to preserve fertility, simply hearing clear options can prevent the feeling of: “No one told me I had choices.”
Common questions we hear in consultation (and why they deserve answers)
“Does everyone with cancer lose fertility?”
No. The impact varies based on the type of treatment, dosage, age, and which organs are involved. The effect can be temporary or long-term. That’s why it’s important to assess your specific case instead of assuming.
“Can I talk about this if my priority is to start treatment right away?”
Yes. In fact, clinical guidance often recommends discussing fertility early—and if someone has interest (or even uncertainty), connecting them with a fertility specialist as soon as possible.
“What if I already started treatment?”
Even then, it can still be helpful to evaluate and talk about options. Fertility and reproductive health can be addressed not only before treatment, but also during survivorship planning and after treatment—depending on the person’s situation.
“How do I know which option is right for me?”
It depends on your diagnosis, treatment plan, timing, medical history, and personal goals. That’s why fertility preservation should always be personalized and coordinated with your oncology team.
Conclusion
On World Cancer Day, the message isn’t only “raise awareness.” It’s also a reminder that the future still exists, even in the middle of a diagnosis. If you’re in that moment—or supporting someone who is—this is worth knowing: some cancer treatments can affect fertility, but there are also medical paths to protect options and make decisions with calm, clarity, and the right team.
At Ingenes, this support is centered on a clear goal: helping you care for your health without letting go of the hope of having your baby when the time is right. If you’re about to start treatment or have just been diagnosed, getting evaluated early can make a meaningful difference. It can help you understand risks, timing, and possibilities—and build a plan that truly fits you.