Starting a family

With the increase in the median age of survival, many people with cystic fibrosis have or think about starting a family. Before going ahead, it is important to discuss this issue with the CF clinic team. There are many factors to consider.

Women with CF are often able to conceive naturally. However, men with CF are usually infertile due to the absence of the vas deferens. With advances in assisted reproductive technologies, males with cystic fibrosis may be able to father their own biological children. Genetic counsellors can discuss these family planning issues.

Read Sexuality, Fertility and Cystic Fibrosis: Information for Adults

Other resources:

Carrier Testing for Cystic Fibrosis
When a parent has CF: Explaining your illness to your child
Newborn Screening

Reviewed/updated: 2009-09-01