Although not everyone ends up having children, most people at least want to have the option. Cancer -- and treatment for cancer -- can sometimes take that option away, or can raise doubts about whether having children is even the right thing to do.

The good news for people facing cancer is that, in most cases, you can become a parent if you wish. It may not happen in the way you had expected before you learned you had cancer, but if you can be flexible, you will find there are options to help.

Here is information to help you start looking at your fertility options before or after cancer. It covers:

• what is needed for a normal pregnancy
• questions about fertility you can ask your doctor before cancer treatment
• effects of cancer treatment in women and ways to preserve fertility before treatment
• effects of cancer treatment in men and ways to preserve fertility before treatment
• fertility options available for women and for men after cancer treatment
• cancer treatment and infertility in children
• frequently asked questions
• other issues to consider
• additional resources you may want to use