Sperm Freezing

Sperm freezing, also known as sperm cryopreservation, is a process of freezing and storing a man's sperm for future use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Who freezes their sperm?

Men freeze their sperm for various reasons.Men undergoing cancer treatment, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other cancer treatments can harm sperm production, quality, and motility. Therefore, men who want to preserve their fertility before undergoing cancer treatment may opt for sperm freezing.Men with low sperm count or poor sperm motility may choose to freeze their sperm as a backup, in case they have trouble conceiving naturally or may require assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) in the future. In some cases, sperm quality might worsen over time and freezing sperm can preserve sperm at present quality.Men undergoing gender treatment and transitioning from male to female may want to preserve their fertility before starting hormone therapy or gender affirmation surgery, which can affect fertility.Military personnel who may be deployed in areas with limited access to medical facilities or who may face injuries that affect future fertility, may choose to freeze their sperm before deployment.Athletes who participate in sports that carry a risk of testicular injury, or who want to delay parenthood due to their careers may choose to freeze their sperm.Couples or individuals seeking assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to conceive may opt for sperm freezing as a way to simplify the treatment logistics or as a backup in case their fresh collection attempt fails.

Where do you bank your sperm?

Sperm can be banked or stored at a sperm bank, a fertility clinic or private companies.Sperm banks are facilities that collect, freeze, and store sperm from anonymous or known donors. Sperm from a sperm bank can be used by individuals or couples who require donor sperm to conceive.Fertility clinics offer sperm freezing and storage services for men who want to preserve their fertility. Sperm can be stored at a fertility clinic for a specified period of time, usually up to several years or even indefinitely.Private companies offer sperm storage services, which may include home collection kits or on- site collection facilities. These services may be more expensive than using a sperm bank or fertility clinic.It is important to choose a reputable and accredited facility for sperm banking, as the quality of sperm freezing and storage can affect the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI), and also to consider the cost and location of the facility, as well as, any additional services or benefits that may be offered.

Embryologist taking tube from liquid nitrogen cryogenic tank.

What does the sperm freezing process look like?

The process of sperm freezing involves several steps to ensure the viability and quality of the sperm. A step-by-step guide to sperm freezing:

Semen collection

The first step in sperm freezing is collecting a semen sample from the man. The sample is usually collected through masturbation or by using a special condom during intercourse.

Semen analysis

The semen sample is then analyzed to determine the sperm count, motility, and morphology. This information helps the fertility specialist to determine the best method for sperm freezing and storage.

Sperm preparation

The semen sample is prepared for freezing by removing the seminal fluid and other debris. This is done by a process called sperm washing or centrifugation, which separates the sperm from the rest of the semen. In some situations, a native specimen can be frozen and stored without prior washing.

Cryoprotectant addition

A cryoprotectant solution is added to the sperm to protect it from damage during freezing and thawing. The solution helps to prevent ice crystals from forming in the sperm, which can damage the cell membrane and affect its viability.

Freezing

The prepared sperm is then slowly frozen to very low temperatures (usually around -196°C) using liquid nitrogen. The sperm is usually frozen in small vials or straws to make it easier to thaw individual samples later.

Storage

The frozen sperm is then stored in liquid nitrogen at a sperm bank or fertility clinic until it is needed for use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).

How much does it cost to freeze your sperm in Los Angeles?

The cost of sperm freezing in Los Angeles can vary depending on several factors such as the location and reputation of the facility, the duration of storage, and any additional services or benefits offered. Generally, the cost of sperm freezing in Los Angeles ranges from $500 to $1,000 for the initial sperm freezing. This will typically already include cryostorage fees during the first year. Following the complimentary year, fees for continued storage are typically paid annually. Additional costs can be expected for thawing and using the sperm in the future.Some insurance plans may cover the cost of sperm freezing, but it is recommended to check with your provider to determine the extent of coverage. Some sperm banks or fertility clinics may offer financing options or discounts for military personnel, students, or individuals who require sperm freezing for medical reasons.

How effective is sperm freezing?

Sperm freezing can be an effective method of preserving a man's fertility. The success of using frozen sperm depends on several factors such as the quality of the sperm, the age of the woman, and the specific assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure used.The success rate of using frozen sperm in ART procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) is generally high. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the success rate of using frozen sperm in IVF is similar to that of using fresh sperm.Selecting a reliable and accredited center for freezing and storing sperm is crucial to increasing the likelihood of success.

How long does sperm last frozen?

Sperm can be frozen and stored indefinitely in liquid nitrogen at very low temperatures (usually around -196°C). There is no known limit to how long sperm can be stored, and there have been cases of successful pregnancies using sperm that have been frozen for decades.The viability and quality of frozen sperm can be affected by several factors such as the quality of the semen sample, the preparation process, and the storage conditions. Over time, ice crystals may form in the sperm, which can damage the cell membrane and affect its viability.To ensure the best chances of success, it is recommended to periodically review the stored sperm to assess its quality and viability. Sperm banks or fertility clinics may also have specific guidelines for the duration of storage, which may vary depending on the specific facility and the type of storage system used.

Are there any legal considerations about sperm freezing?

Yes, there may be legal considerations related to sperm freezing, especially if the sperm is intended to be used for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Some common legal considerations related to sperm freezing include:Consent - Before sperm can be frozen and stored, the donor must provide informed consent, which includes understanding the purpose of the sperm storage, the potential risks and benefits, and the future use of the sperm.Ownership - The issue of ownership of frozen sperm can be complex, especially in cases where there is a dispute over the use or disposition of the sperm. It is recommended to address ownership rights and potential disputes in the informed consent process or through a legal agreement.Use - The intended use of the sperm must be clearly stated in the informed consent process or through a legal agreement. The use of frozen sperm for ART must comply with federal and state laws and regulations related to reproductive rights, parentage, and inheritance.Disclosure - The donor's identity may need to be disclosed to the recipient or the child born as a result of the ART procedure, depending on the laws and regulations of the state or country where the sperm was donated and used.Disposition - If the donor no longer wishes to store the sperm or if the sperm is no longer viable, it must be disposed of in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations related to biohazardous waste disposal. The donor might elect to donate the sperm for research or for reproductive use by another individual.

CONCLUSION

Sperm freezing is a viable option for men who wish to preserve their fertility for various reasons, including medical treatments or lifestyle choices. The process involves freezing and storing semen samples in a specialized facility, which can be later used for assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization. Sperm freezing has proven to be highly effective. This process can provide men with the opportunity to start a family at a later stage in life.Please CONTACT US if you have any questions about sperm freezing.