Views of male childhood cancer survivors on fertility preservation and restoration

Treatments for childhood cancer may lead to infertility. To safeguard the fertility of young male cancer patients, a testicular biopsy can be frozen that contains spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), the basis for spermatogenesis. This study focused on SSCT, a new fertility restoration treatment. Through interviews with five male survivors (aged 17-24), we explored their experiences and opinions on fertility preservation and restoration. In general, participants were happy with their parents' decision to freeze a biopsy. The freedom to choose was a key topic for them. They were willing to take the required steps to reach parenthood if desired. They had few concerns about the safety of SSCT but had questions about the chances of success. Their trust in science and healthcare was strong. However, in their experience, fertility was not sufficiently discussed during follow-up care. The results support doctors, former childhood cancer patients, and their parents concerning fertility after childhood cancer.