Yes, chemotherapy can affect a man's fertility (ability to father a child). Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely to affect fertility than others. The dose of the drugs and the length of time they are given over are also factors. It is probably a good idea for you to discuss this as a couple with your boyfriend’s cancer specialist, who will know the drugs he is going to have. The newer combinations of chemotherapy drugs used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma, such as ABVD, are less likely to cause infertility than those used previously.

The effect on sperm production may be temporary or permanent. Following treatment it may take several years for fertility to recover. Some men with Hodgkin lymphoma have reduced fertility before starting any treatment for reasons that are unknown.

Couples are advised to avoid getting pregnant during chemotherapy, as the drugs may harm the developing foetus, and for a few months afterwards. Condoms should be used during sex for the first 48 hours after chemotherapy to protect partners from any of the drug that may be present in semen.

As it is not possible to predict whether a man's fertility will be affected, or if it will return after treatment, many men choose to store sperm before they start. The cancer centre usually meets the costs of sperm storage.

If you are both concerned about your boyfriend's future fertility it's important to to discuss this with his doctors, before chemotherapy starts. They will be able to advise him on whether he needs to consider sperm storage, and if necessary refer him to a fertility clinic.