Fertility preservation or gamete storage

Fertility preservation is a critical consideration for individuals who may undergo medical or hormonal treatments that could impair their reproductive potential. This includes patients engaging in NHS-prescribed, privately prescribed, or self-prescribed hormone therapies.

Referral and access to fertility preservation services

We would advise that patients should be offered the choice of referral to a provider to store gametes before they engage in any self-prescribed, private or NHS prescribed hormone treatment.  GPs can make this referral directly, ensuring timely access to fertility preservation services. Timing is crucial: Ideally, referrals should be made prior to the commencement of any hormone therapy or surgical interventions that may compromise fertility. For further information visit the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority website. Visit the Healthcare Professional Hormone Support Hub for guidance on informed consent.