Fertility preservation is the process of saving or protecting eggs, sperm, or reproductive tissue so that a person can use them to have biological children in the future. It's an important consideration for transgender people undergoing medical transition, as hormone therapy and surgeries can impact fertility.
Options for People Assigned Male at Birth
Sperm Freezing (Cryopreservation): this is the most common method. Sperm is collected and frozen, which can later be used for artificial insemination or in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
Testicular Tissue Freezing: testicular tissue containing sperm stem cells is frozen to be stored for future use.
Options for People Assigned Female at Birth
Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation): the ovaries are stimulated to produce eggs, which are then retrieved and frozen for future use.
Embryo Freezing: similar to egg freezing, but the eggs are fertilized with sperm before being frozen.
Ovarian Tissue Freezing: ovarian tissue is removed and frozen for future re-implantation.
Considerations for Younger People
Fertility preservation can be more complex for trans youth. Puberty blockers, often part of early transition care, can temporarily halt the development of reproductive organs, impacting future fertility. Discuss fertility preservation options before starting puberty blockers or hormone therapy.
The Emotional and Financial Aspects
Fertility preservation can be an emotionally charged decision, so seek support from people who understand the nuances of the transitioning process. Financially, these procedures can be costly, and insurance coverage varies greatly, so we recommend you research and plan ahead.
Making the Decision
Consult Healthcare Providers: it’s important to discuss fertility options with people who specialise in transgender health.
Timing: consider when to undergo fertility preservation – before starting hormone therapy or after. Each choice has different implications.
Family Planning Goals: reflect on your desires for biological children in the future. This is a personal decision and varies widely among individuals.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: be aware of the legal and ethical aspects of using stored biological material, especially in different jurisdictions.
If you’re interested in preserving fertility, you can book a Fertility Referral Session to explore your options. You can ask any questions you have and learn more about private (non-NHS) clinics in your area that suit your needs.