Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Oncology treatments
🟢 A link with fertility is documented by numerous, converging human studies, endorsed by health authorities.
Share this factsheet
In brief
chemotherapy and fertility: this page reviews Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy (Oncology treatments) — documented mechanism, everyday exposure situations and possible alternatives. Level of evidence: Established.
- Where it's found
- History of cancer treatment, especially before age 40.
- Suspected mechanism
- Direct and sometimes lasting toxicity on oocytes and sperm-producing cells, depending on the doses received.
- Suggested alternative
- A specialized fertility assessment is warranted; gamete preservation is provided for by law in France.
- Source
- INCa (French national cancer institute), fertility preservation; ASCO guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy: how is it linked to infertility?
Direct and sometimes lasting toxicity on oocytes and sperm-producing cells, depending on the doses received.
Where is Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy found in everyday life?
History of cancer treatment, especially before age 40.
How can exposure to Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy be reduced?
A specialized fertility assessment is warranted; gamete preservation is provided for by law in France.
What is the level of evidence for Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy?
Established. A link with fertility is documented by numerous, converging human studies, endorsed by health authorities.
Map your everyday exposures in about ten minutes.
Take the questionnaireShare this factsheet
Related factors
Including a factor does not mean it causes infertility: it is simply worth monitoring, depending on its level of evidence.
Content last updated: September 14, 2026