Does cancer-related hormone therapy affect trans women's fertility?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 38 years old and have been on hormone therapy for prostate cancer (trans woman). I am exploring options for carrying a pregnancy via transplant or surrogacy. Is it medically feasible for a trans woman to carry a pregnancy with current reproductive medicine? Can hormone suppression from cancer therapy complicate future fertility options like gamete retrieval?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Yes, it is possible for a trans woman who has been treated for prostate cancer to become pregnant, but there are some important considerations and potential challenges. While hormone therapy for prostate cancer can affect fertility, it does not necessarily preclude the possibility of pregnancy.

Impact on trans women: Feminizing hormone therapy, which many trans women take, can also affect fertility, potentially leading to decreased sperm production or even infertility.

Sperm cryopreservation: If a trans woman desires to have children in the future, sperm cryopreservation (freezing) is a crucial step to take before starting hormone therapy, whether for transition or prostate cancer treatment.

Potential challenges: Even with sperm cryopreservation, there may still be challenges related to the use of stored sperm, such as the possibility of reduced quality or quantity over time.

Alternative reproductive options: Trans women can explore alternative reproductive options, like in vitro fertilization (IVF) using donor sperm or artificial insemination with stored sperm.

Consult with healthcare professionals: It is vital to have open conversations with healthcare providers, including oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, and other relevant specialists, to discuss fertility concerns and potential treatment options.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.