Fertility preservation has become a beacon of hope for many, especially those facing life-altering treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. At the North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine (NCCRM) fertility center Raleigh NC, we understand the desire to have children and the uncertainty that can come with medical treatments. This guide explores how NCCRM’s state-of-the-art fertility preservation options can help you maintain your dream of parenthood.
What is fertility preservation?
Fertility preservation involves safeguarding your reproductive potential so you can attempt to have biological children in the future. This is especially crucial for cancer patients who may undergo treatments affecting their fertility. Our fertility center Raleigh, NC, offers a range of advanced options tailored to meet individual needs and circumstances.
Meet NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine (NCCRM) has been a leader in reproductive health since its inception in 1992. Founded by Dr. Luther Talbert, who performed North Carolina’s first successful in vitro fertilization (IVF), NCCRM boasts some of the highest pregnancy success rates in the country. Our team commits to providing medical center-level care in a private, accessible, and relaxed setting.
Fertility Preservation Options Before Chemotherapy or Radiation
Emergency In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Embryo Freezing
Before starting cancer treatment, women can undergo emergency IVF to harvest and fertilize their eggs, which are then frozen as embryos. This option offers a higher success rate compared to other methods and can be particularly beneficial for women with hormone-sensitive cancers.
Ovarian Stimulation with Oocyte (Egg) Freezing
For those who prefer not to create embryos, ovarian stimulation followed by egg freezing is a viable alternative. Eggs harvested through this process can be thawed, fertilized, and implanted when you are ready to conceive.
Ovarian Tissue Freezing
Another innovative option is ovarian tissue freezing. This involves removing and freezing ovarian tissue, which can later be transplanted into the body to restore fertility naturally.
Laparoscopic Ovarian Transposition
In this procedure, the ovaries are surgically repositioned to minimize radiation exposure. This method aims to preserve ovarian function during cancer treatments.
Fertility Preservation Options During Chemotherapy or Radiation
Leuprolide Acetate Treatment (Lupron)
Lupron is a medication that temporarily shuts down the ovaries, reducing their susceptibility to the damaging effects of chemotherapy or radiation. It’s an excellent option for preserving fertility during ongoing cancer treatments.
Fertility Options After Chemotherapy or Radiation
Natural Conception
For many, natural conception remains a possibility after completing cancer treatments. However, it is essential to consult your medical provider to assess your fertility status.
Transfer of Frozen Embryos
If you’ve previously frozen embryos, you can thaw them and transfer them to the uterus. This method often has a high success rate.
IVF with Own or Donor Eggs
Post-treatment IVF using your own or donor eggs can be an effective way to achieve pregnancy. NCCRM provides comprehensive support to guide you through this process.
IVF Using a Surrogate
For women unable to carry a pregnancy, using a surrogate mother is an option. This involves transferring your fertilized embryos into a surrogate’s uterus.
Adoption Referral
NCCRM also offers adoption referral services for those looking to expand their families through adoption.
Male Fertility Preservation Options
Sperm Freezing
Before starting cancer treatment, men can freeze their sperm for future use. This simple and effective method ensures that you can have biological children.
Epididymal Aspiration
For men unable to ejaculate but wanting to preserve their fertility, epididymal aspiration allows for the extraction and freezing of sperm directly from the epididymis.
IVF with Fresh or Frozen Sperm
After treatment, using fresh or frozen sperm for IVF NC treatment provides a viable path to parenthood.
IVF with Donor Sperm
In cases where a man’s sperm is not viable post-treatment, donor sperm can be used for IVF, ensuring that the dream of fatherhood remains within reach.
NCCRM | Fertility Center Raleigh, NC
At NCCRM, we can help you achieve your dream of parenthood, even in the face of medical challenges. Our advanced fertility preservation options provide hope and tangible solutions for both men and women. If you are facing treatment that could impact your fertility, consider our fertility center Raleigh, NC, to safeguard your future family. Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with one of our experienced specialists today and explore how NCCRM can help you preserve your fertility.
