Sperm Freezing (Sperm Cryopreservation)
The cryopreservation or banking of sperm, also known as sperm freezing, involves the long-term storage of a man's sperm cells for future use in assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
What is sperm freezing?
Semen, the creamy fluid emitted from the male reproductive tract during ejaculation, contains sperm. A single ejaculate has the potential to carry up to 500 million sperm. Upon deposition into the vagina, millions of sperm embark on a journey through the cervix. If they happen upon an egg, fertilization may ensue, potentially resulting in pregnancy.
The process of sperm freezing commences with the collection, freezing, and subsequent storage of sperm for a specified duration. This method is frequently opted for by individuals in high-risk occupations or undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, as it ensures the possibility of starting a family and having children in the future. The sperm is preserved at exceptionally low temperatures, typically at -196 degrees Celsius, until the time of retrieval for use.
When an individual is about to embark on parenthood, the cryopreserved sperm is thawed and introduced into the female reproductive tract. This can be accomplished through two methods: intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). This medical technology is an effective option for individuals facing infertility.
What are the preparations for sperm freezing?
You will be requested to complete a questionnaire and sign a consent form to ensure you understand the procedure. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and order a blood test to screen for sexually transmitted diseases. You should abstain from sex for a couple of days. Sperm will be cryopreserved immediately or within an hour at the latest.
The volume, morphology, and motility of sperm will be analyzed. The samples will be stored in multiple vials for redundancy and frozen until needed for fertilization. For those with azoospermia, percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration and testicular sperm extraction (PESA/TESE) are options to retrieve sperm for cryopreservation.
How long can frozen sperm survive?
If kept optimally at around -196 degrees Celsius, properly frozen sperm can remain viable for decades but cannot guarantee indefinite viability.
What will happen to the thawed sperm?
Your doctor will determine the quality of thawed sperm and select the most suitable fertilization method, such as:
- In vitro fertilization (IVF): This technique involves retrieving eggs from a woman and fertilizing them with thawed sperm outside the body. The embryos are then transferred into the woman's uterus for implantation.
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): In this procedure, thawed sperm is inseminated into the woman's uterus close to ovulation time.
Who should get Sperm Freezing?
- Men are at risk of infertility due to older ages.
- Men planning to have a vasectomy.
- Men consider specific medical interventions such as chemotherapy, which can impair fertility potential.
- Men undergoing surgeries, such as prostate cancer surgery.
- Men in life-endangering occupations, such as military personnel.
- Men who are considering IVF.
Sperm freezing is a robust technology with proven results and minimal risks. If you are considering Sperm Freezing and IVF, consult our Reproductive Endocrinologist at MedPark IVF – Fertility and Genetics Center.
