Gonadal Shielding

Gonadal shielding is a procedure that helps to preserve a person’s fertility by preventing damage to the reproductive organs while undergoing radiation therapy. A shield is placed on the outside of the body, specifically the gonadal region; for men— the prostate, penis, and testicles, and women— the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus cervix, and vagina.

The proximity of the radiation target site to the genital region can result in scatter radiation to the area, which can significantly impair spermatogenesis and oogenesis, compromising fertility.