Ever had a question about relationships or sex that you just can’t ask your oncology care provider? Ever felt too shy to ask a nurse or doctor a question, but really needed the answer? Now you can ask those questions and get answers from Dr. Anne Katz, the Awkward Auntie! We’re back for another round of Awkward Auntie. Read on for some more recent Q&As!
Question: Because I was 22 and worked a low-paying job at the time, and freezing eggs was not covered by my insurance, I was unable to preserve my fertility due to a lack of money. I have been hesitant to date anyone because I am unsure of my ability to have children, and I would like to be upfront with anyone I date so they can be fully informed before becoming overly attached. Is it realistic to think this way? Would a doctor be able to order tests to check my fertility without me actively trying to conceive? Is it weird to want these types of test results prior to getting into a serious relationship? My mom is usually with me at my appointments, so I have been unable to comfortably discuss this with my oncologist.
Answer: Your question is a reasonable one (and not at all weird!), and I understand your concern and need for accurate information. Yes, there are tests that can suggest your fertility status but remember that any results will be a ‘snapshot’ of your hormonal status at the time of the test(s) so may not be relevant in the future. You can also ask the nurse who works with your oncologist to make an excuse for you to speak to the oncologist alone. But…and I don’t know what your relationship is with your Mom….she may have the same questions about your fertility as you do! I am the mother of 2 young adults, and I hope they can talk to me about this kind of stuff. But everyone is different, of course. I would hope that your Mom is a source of support to you as you have gone through your cancer and would be a support to you with any fertility-related concerns.
You can learn more about this great program, find the answers to past questions, and submit a question of your own by going here!
More about the Awkward Auntie program:
Dr. Anne Katz, also known as the Awkward Auntie, is a certified sexuality counselor and nurse who has written a couple of books about young adults and cancer – and all the things that happen to your body, relationships, and sex during and after treatment. She will answer any and all questions that you send to AwkwardAuntie@lacunaloft.org or submit in the form below. You don’t have to give your name or other identifying information – but it might be helpful for her to know how you identify yourself by gender, your age, and what kind of cancer and treatment you had.
YOU CAN ASK HER ANYTHING…. Don’t hold back! Your questions will be answered periodically and posted on our Awkward Auntie page.
