Bowel Cancer Treatment, Contraception and Fertility

Bowel cancer treatment may affect contraception, pregnancy planning and fertility for some people. The effect depends on the type of treatment, age, general health and whether treatment involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or other medicines.

This article is general information only. Fertility and contraception decisions should be discussed with your doctor, oncology team or fertility specialist before, during and after treatment.

Why Fertility Should Be Discussed Early

If having children in the future is important to you, tell your doctor before treatment starts. Some cancer treatments may temporarily or permanently affect fertility.

Your healthcare team may be able to discuss fertility preservation options or refer you to a fertility specialist before treatment begins.

Contraception During Treatment

Your doctor may advise you to use contraception during treatment and for a period after treatment. This is because some treatments may affect eggs, sperm or a developing pregnancy.

The best contraception method depends on your treatment, health, relationship situation and medical advice. Do not stop or start contraception without speaking with your healthcare team.

Fertility in Women

Some treatments may affect periods, hormone levels or the ability to become pregnant. Radiation therapy to the pelvic area, some chemotherapy medicines or surgery may have fertility effects.

If fertility is a concern, ask about your options as early as possible. A fertility specialist can explain choices based on your situation.

Fertility in Men

Some treatments may affect sperm production, erections or ejaculation. Men who may want children in the future should ask about sperm banking before treatment begins.

Sexual function can also be affected by treatment, especially after some pelvic surgeries. Our Sexuality After Bowel Cancer article explains this topic more broadly.

Pregnancy After Bowel Cancer

Some people may be able to have children after bowel cancer treatment, but timing and safety should be discussed with a doctor. Your medical team can explain what is recommended based on your treatment and follow-up plan.

Do not rely on general information alone when making pregnancy decisions after cancer treatment.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Could my treatment affect fertility?
• Should I see a fertility specialist before treatment?
• What contraception should I use during treatment?
• How long should contraception continue after treatment?
• Is pregnancy safe after my treatment?
• Could treatment affect sexual function?

You may also use our Bowel Cancer Questions to Ask Your Doctor guide to prepare for appointments.

Final Thoughts

Contraception and fertility can be sensitive topics, but they are important to discuss early. Ask your healthcare team direct questions so you can understand your options before treatment decisions are made.