Infertility Awareness Week is coming April 20-26, and it is an important time to shed light on fertility challenges that impact many individuals, including those living with cystic fibrosis (CF). While CF is widely recognized for its effects on the lungs and digestive system, its impact on reproductive health is often overlooked.
We aim to raise awareness, provide guidance, and empower the CF community with knowledge about fertility options and family planning.
Understanding Fertility Challenges in CF
Cystic fibrosis can affect fertility in both men and women, though the challenges differ:
- Men with CF often have congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD), meaning sperm cannot travel from the testes to be released naturally. While this leads to infertility, men with CF are not sterile and may still father children through assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as sperm retrieval and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Women with CF may face reduced fertility due to thick cervical mucus, irregular ovulation, and overall health challenges. However, many women with CF are able to conceive naturally or with medical assistance.
Exploring Family-Building Options
Advancements in reproductive medicine have provided more options for individuals with CF to grow their families. These include:
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI) offer fertility solutions for both men and women with CF.
- Genetic Counseling: Since CF is a genetic condition, couples may benefit from genetic testing and counseling to understand the likelihood of passing CF to their children.
- Adoption and Surrogacy: For those who choose alternative paths to parenthood, adoption and surrogacy are viable options that provide opportunities to build a family.
- Pregnancy and CF Care: Women with CF who wish to become pregnant should work closely with their CF care team to manage their health and ensure a safe pregnancy.
Navigating Parenthood with CF
Parenting with CF presents unique challenges, but many individuals successfully balance managing their health while raising a family. Important considerations include:
- Physical Health: Ensuring stability in lung function, nutrition, and overall well-being before planning for a child.
- Support Systems: Building a strong network of family, friends, and medical professionals to assist with the demands of parenting.
- Long-Term Health Planning: Understanding potential risks and making informed decisions about parenthood.
Empowering the CF Community
At the Filotimo Foundation, we are committed to raising awareness about fertility in CF and providing resources to those exploring their reproductive options. We are proud to partner with Atlantic Reproductive to support individuals and couples on their fertility journey.
If you have questions about fertility and CF, reach out to us, and we’ll help connect you with the right resources.
This Fertility Awareness Month, let’s break the stigma, educate our community, and advocate for greater access to fertility care for individuals with CF.
Want to learn more or support our mission?
Follow us on Instagram @Filotimo_Foundation and join the conversation!
