Semen Cryopreservation in Men Undergoing Cancer Chemotherapy
Author Information
Author(s): D.W. Milligan, R. Hughes, K.S. Lindsay
Hypothesis
What is the availability and success of semen cryopreservation services for men with malignant disease in the UK?
Conclusion
Semen cryopreservation is effective for some young men with malignant disease, but better funding and record-keeping are needed.
Supporting Evidence
- 22 centres in the UK have stored specimens from 2,219 men.
- There has been a three-fold increase in referrals in the past five years.
- 27 pregnancies (21 live births) have been achieved in 22 couples using cryopreserved sperm.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many men with cancer were able to store their sperm before treatment, and it found that some were able to have babies later, but many hospitals need more money and better records.
Methodology
Postal questionnaires were sent to clinics and hospitals across the UK to gather data on semen cryopreservation from 1977 to 1987.
Potential Biases
Some hospitals had no formal system for identifying deceased patients, which could affect data accuracy.
Limitations
The quality of information provided was frequently poor, and many hospitals did not keep accurate records.
Participant Demographics
Men with malignant diseases undergoing chemotherapy.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website