Also known as sperm storage/sperm cryopreservation is a way of helping men safeguard their fertility by storing their sperm at extremely low temperatures.
Sperm freezing can be ideal for those male patients whose fertility might be impaired by a medical condition, or as a side effect of treatment.
Sperms can be frozen for a short period and long term (up to 55 years).
What does the sperm freezing procedure involve?
The patient needs to provide semen via masturbation in the private area at the clinic. Samples are then stored in small, sealed bottles in liquid Nitrogen vapour. These bottles are carefully labelled with your name, date of birth and reference number, and are witnessed by a second member of staff, who also verifies the details.
Freezing takes place as soon as possible after the sample is passed, so it is better if the sample is produced on the premises.
How the frozen sperm can be used in the future?
There are several options which may be open to you. The main ones are:
- IUI – Intra-uterine Insemination
- IVF – In Vitro Fertilisation
- ICSI – Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection
All these will be explained to you by the doctor when you are ready to start a family.
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