Sperm Freezing
Why do we need sperm storage?
Unfortunately, certain medical and surgical treatments can affect reproductive function and fertility, sometimes permanently. Sperm storage prior to treatment therefore provides an alternative by preserving fertility, and with advances with assisted conception techniques, offers a realistic chance of achieving a future pregnancy.
Who is it appropriate for?
Any male of reproductive age undergoing treatment, which is likely to impair his fertility, may be suitable for sperm storage.
These include:-
- Chemotherapy/radiotherapy
- Bladder neck surgery
- Urological surgery e.g. prostate
- Vasectomy
- Men with low sperm counts whose partners are going to have ICSI treatment
The sperm are analysed and mixed with a preservative that protects your sperm during the freezing process. Space is allocated in our special freezers and the samples will remain in storage at temperatures as low as -190°C until required or until we are instructed to dispose of them.
How long can sperm be stored?
The maximum storage period permissible by law is until you reach the age of 55 or for 10 years, whichever is longer.
How do I use my sperm in the future?
To use your sperm to achieve a pregnancy, you will need some form of help from either our clinic or another. This help could take the form of a simple insemination, timed to the ovulation (release of the egg) of your partner, or occasionally more involved forms of treatment such as IVF or ICSI. In some cases treatment is not available on the NHS and there is a cost implication. To pursue treatment, the clinic requires a letter from your GP or hospital doctor. You will then be seen by one of our specialists who will advise you on which treatment will give you the best chance of a pregnancy. However, you must bear in mind that we cannot give firm guarantees of treatment success.
What if my sperm are poor?
Sperm can be poor for a number of reasons and sperm can be damaged during the freezing process itself, reducing their ability to fertilise the egg. If this happens, we can offer treatments such as IVF or ICSI to help poor sperm in fertilising the egg.