Ethical aspects of fertility-preserving treatment in young people with cancer

Having children and starting a family is an important aspect of a good life for many people. Limitation of fertility due to cancer therapies can be a significant burden on patients' lives. Therefore, information about the possibilities of fertility preservation treatments must be provided. The decision as to whether these should be carried out takes place in an already stressful situation. The decision about fertility preservation treatments raises a number of ethical questions that physicians must be aware of when providing information and counselling. In the information and decision-making process, issues of patient autonomy, non-maleficence and justice are negotiated. Attitudes towards partnership, questions of the best interests of the child and alternatives to fertility preservation treatments can also be important for the decision of those affected. The article gives an overview of relevant ethical issues around fertility preservation and how they should be addressed.