CML and fertility

If you think you might want to start a family or have more children at some stage, tell your hospital team as soon as possible. They can speak to you about your options, which may include:

• Freezing eggs, sperm or embryos before starting treatment.
• Pausing, stopping or changing your treatment in the future, to give you a chance to conceive naturally.

If you think you might need fertility treatment, your GP or hospital team will be able to give you information about relevant clinics in your area. They can also tell you whether you will be eligible for NHS treatment.

We have some more information about fertility.

If you’re having treatment for CML, your hospital team will talk to you about the effects it may have on your fertility. We have some important information about each type of treatment below.

Some people will need to start treatment straight away after diagnosis and might feel pressured to decide about fertility really quickly, but there should always be time to talk through your situation with a doctor or nurse. Remember, you can ask questions at any time, and don’t be afraid to bring up the conversation again if your circumstances change.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are not thought to have a significant long-term effect on fertility (your ability to conceive naturally). They cannot be passed on through sperm, and it is safe to get someone pregnant if you are taking TKIs and they are not.

However, you should avoid becoming pregnant and use a barrier method of contraception e.g. condoms if you are the one taking a TKI. Speak to your doctor if you can’t use contraception for whatever reason, as they can explain the risks of pregnancy and provide advice for your personal situation.

TKIs can also be passed on through breastmilk, so avoid breastfeeding if you are receiving treatment.

If you're taking chemotherapy drugs such as hydroxycarbamide, use a barrier contraception e.g. condoms as chemotherapy can be passed on to both partners through sex.

Some stronger cancer treatments like chemotherapy drugs may also affect your fertility if they're taken over long periods of time. Your hospital team can tell you if your treatment is likely to reduce your fertility, and if your fertility is likely to come back again when the treatment stops.

Your doctor should also take your preferences into account when deciding which treatment to recommend. Remember it's OK to ask questions or seek a second opinion if you're unsure about anything.

If you’re planning to have a stem cell transplant, it is possible that some drugs used for the transplant will cause an early menopause. This means that eggs are no longer released by the ovaries, and it will no longer be possible to become pregnant naturally. Your doctor will explain the risks and side effects of a stem cell transplant with you before the procedure, and you will have the chance to ask lots of questions.

If you become pregnant whilst on treatment for CML, or you are pregnant at the time of diagnosis, you may be recommended interferon as a temporary alternative to TKIs. This is because it is safe to take during pregnancy.

Interferon is an injection given under the skin. It can be done by you or someone else at home, or by your district nurse at your GP surgery if you prefer.

Some people notice that they become depressed whilst on interferon. Tell your hospital team if you notice any changes in your mood.