The short answer
Fertility and sexual health are important parts of cancer care, but they are not always raised for you — sometimes you need to start the conversation. Making a list of questions helps. This page gathers questions to ask before, during, and after treatment, and describes the specialists and support that can help.
Your team may raise fertility and sexual health, or you may need to start the conversation.
Bringing a written list of questions helps you cover what matters.
Ask about fertility before treatment, when the most options are open.
Ask about sexual health during treatment, including protection and contraception.
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The full explanation.
Why speaking up matters
Fertility and sexual health are important parts of life, but they are not always raised for you during cancer care. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), your doctor or nurse may bring up these topics — or you may need to start the conversation yourself. Being proactive helps make sure your questions get answered.
NCI also notes that research found survivors felt less regret when they had met with a fertility specialist, whether or not they went on to preserve their fertility. That is one reason it helps to raise these topics early.
Make a list of questions
A written list helps you remember what to ask and makes conversations easier. You can add questions as you think of them and bring the list to appointments. It can also help to bring a partner or a trusted person with you.
Questions to ask before treatment
- Could the recommended treatment affect my fertility? Are there options that might cause fewer fertility problems?
- Can you refer me to a fertility specialist, such as a reproductive endocrinologist, before treatment?
- Which fertility preservation methods might fit me, and what is available here or at a fertility clinic?
- Who can help me understand insurance and cost?
- What method of birth control or protection should I use during treatment?
Questions to ask during treatment
- What sexual changes or problems are common with this treatment?
- When might these changes happen, and how long might they last?
- How can these problems be prevented, treated, or managed?
- Are there times when I should avoid sexual activity — for example, when the risk of infection or bleeding is higher?
- Should my partner and I use a condom or contraception?
Questions to ask after treatment
- What are the chances that people who have this treatment are fertile or can become pregnant afterward?
- If changes are temporary, how long might fertility take to return?
- Should I keep using birth control, and for how long?
- What follow-up care is recommended?
Who can help
Beyond your oncologist, several people can help. A urologist or sexual health expert can advise on sexual health concerns. A fertility specialist can explain fertility options. A social worker or patient navigator can help with resources, insurance, and cost. Professionally led support groups and counselors can help you and your partner cope. Your care team can connect you with the right people for your situation.
Words to know
Tap any term to see what it means.
Common questions
▸How do I bring up fertility or sex with my cancer team?
You can say directly that you want to discuss fertility or sexual health. NCI notes that doctors or nurses may raise these topics, but sometimes you need to be the one to start the conversation. A written list of questions can make it easier.
▸When should I ask about fertility?
As early as possible, before treatment. The most effective steps to protect fertility usually happen before treatment starts, so asking early keeps more options open.
▸Why see a fertility specialist?
A fertility specialist, such as a reproductive endocrinologist, can explain all of your options. NCI notes research found that survivors felt less regret when they had met with a fertility specialist, whether or not they chose to preserve fertility.
▸Who can help besides my oncologist?
Depending on your needs, a urologist, a sexual health expert, a social worker, and patient navigator programs can help, as can professionally led support groups and counselors.
▸What should I ask after treatment?
Ask about the chances of being fertile or becoming pregnant, how long fertility might take to return if changes are temporary, whether to keep using birth control, and what follow-up care is recommended.
Questions to ask your doctor
Being prepared helps you get the most out of your appointments. Save or print these questions.
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