Do you counsel young patients on infertility risks following HO prophylaxis with RT?
How long do you advise them to refrain from unprotected sex following RT? I was trained to discuss these issues with patients but the gonadal dose seems too low to cause infertility or heritable effects.
Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Academic Institution
Yes, we do counsel. We also use scrotal 'clamp-shell' blocking. We also block the ovaries. We advise, as we do for other patients who receive RT close to genital areas, that they should avoid child bearing for 6-12 months.
Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Community Practice
The original emailed poll question said, "How long do you advise patients to refrain from unprotected sex following RT for HO prophylaxis? " In terms of intercourse in and of itself, I do not give any restrictions.
But after answering the poll, the main question changes to "Do you counsel young pat...
Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Academic Institution
I agree with the answers put forth. A clamshell might be difficult given the bandaging when RT is given postoperatively, but at the very least, holding off on childbearing for at least 6 months is recommended.