Protecting your
fertility before
cancer treatment.
A cancer diagnosis can bring many decisions in a short period of time. For some patients, fertility preservation may be an important part of that conversation before cancer treatment begins.
Specialist consultation within 48 hours
Cancer patients seeking fertility preservation services at Vitalab are attended to as a priority.
Fertility preservation is part of the conversation.
Vitalab offers a highly specialised program focused on safeguarding fertility for patients diagnosed with cancer.
Our aim is to increase awareness of fertility-preserving options and help patients access appropriate care before cancer therapy begins, where medically appropriate.
Vitalab became the first fertility clinic in Africa to become a member of the international Oncofertility Consortium in 2017.
Vitalab & the Oncofertility Consortium
Since 2017, Vitalab has been a member of the international Oncofertility Consortium, supporting our commitment to fertility preservation for patients facing cancer treatment.
Do you know about the possible effects of cancer treatment on fertility?
The effect of cancer treatment on fertility can vary depending on the treatment and individual circumstances.
For females
Cancer treatment can affect the ovaries and may result in damage or destruction of oocytes, premature menopause and a compromised ability to carry a pregnancy to term.
For males
Cancer treatment can have a temporary or permanent impact on male fertility, depending on the treatment and individual circumstances.
A process designed around time-sensitive care.
When fertility preservation is medically appropriate, the process needs to happen before cancer treatment begins. At Vitalab, our team works quickly to assess your circumstances and determine which fertility preservation option may be appropriate.
Initial contact
Contact our Oncofertility Navigator to begin the process.
Specialist consultation
A fertility specialist consultation is arranged within 48 hours of initial contact.
Individual assessment
Your doctor determines which fertility-preservation approach is appropriate for your circumstances.
Fertility preservation
Where appropriate, gametes may be frozen before cancer treatment begins.
When time matters, every step counts.
The entire fertility-preservation process may take between approximately 2 and 14 days, depending on the treatment option applicable to your diagnosis and individual circumstances.
Preserving possibilities for the future.
Vitalab uses vitrification, a rapid freezing technique used for cryopreservation of oocytes, sperm and embryos. Your fertility specialist will discuss the appropriate preservation option with you based on your individual circumstances.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, talk to us before treatment begins.
Our Oncofertility Navigator can help you understand the next steps and connect you with the appropriate Vitalab team.
Fertility preservation is not appropriate for every patient or every cancer treatment. Your fertility specialist will assess your individual circumstances and treatment timeframe.
