How Does Sperm Freezing Work? A Step-by-Step Guide

July 23, 2024

Over the years, the preservation of sperm, commonly known as cryopreservation, has become one of the solutions of choice for young couples who want to secure their fertility. Thus, the possibility of freezing sperm is an effective method to have a window to plan for future parenthood resulting from a specific medical treatment, age, or chosen lifestyle. Here, we will guide you through all the procedures and stages that lead to the sperm freezing process, show you the approximate sperm freezing cost, and draw attention to the critical factors that define the choice of the best fertility center in Hyderabad.

Understanding the Importance of Sperm Freezing

What is Sperm Freezing?

Sperm banking or sperm cryopreservation is freezingly preserving a man’s sperm samples. It also helps to preserve sperm for future uses in fertility procedures like IVF and IUI because sperm can lose its ability to fertilise an egg very quickly.

Freezing Sperm involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the sperm to very low temperatures (-196°C) low temperature, which reduces metabolic activity to a standstill thus preserving the genetic makeup of the sperm. This procedure is most relevant to those who in future may have issues with their fertility, are going through chemotherapy or are exposed to dangerous working conditions. Sperm can be preserved and remain viable for conception up to several years later when thawed and there will not be a major setback in conception efforts.

• Step 1: Initial Consultation

The initial process of preserving sperm simply begins with a visit to a fertility clinic. In this consultation, a fertility expert will consider the rationale for sperm preservation, review your clinical history, and, based on the chosen package, describe the process and the expense involved. There are numerous fertility centres in Hyderabad and therefore one needs to be very careful while choosing one as it is recommended to use the services of centres that offer a wide range of services with high standardised success rates.

• Step 2: Screening and Tests

The following tests will be conducted on the prospective client; genetic tests, and infectious disease screening, and a comprehensive semen analysis shall also be conducted before the procedure. These tests are particularly important to determine the status of sperm density before freezing.

• Step 3: Sperm Collection

Sperm can be procured by sexual intercourse followed by masturbation into a sterile steric or by the direct masturbation of the donor into one. This is often carried out in the premises of the fertility centre, although occasionally it can be done off-site too. The centre’s recommendations on the number of hours one has to abstain before the collection of sample is ideal and this must be observed to arrive at the best result.

• Step 4: Analysis

After the sample is collected, the semen is examined in a laboratory by generally, sperm count rate, its motility and the morphology or the shape of sperm. This is important in establishing the amount and quality of sperm that can be preserved for use as and when needed.

• Step 5: Freezing

The subsequent step that must be done to maintain the viable sperm free of injury during the actual process of freezing is the addition of a cryoprotectant to the viable sperm. The solution inhibits freeze formation which otherwise destroys the cellular membranes by the formation of ice crystals. The mixture is then carefully placed into specially designed vials or straws, which are labelled with identification details to prevent any mix-up. These containers are sealed securely and then gradually cooled using a controlled rate freezer, a process that ensures a uniform temperature reduction and increases the survival rate of the sperm. This methodical cooling is critical as it helps to stabilise the sperm cells before they are finally plunged into liquid nitrogen tanks for long-term storage.

• Step 6: Storage
  

Once the sperm is correctly stored in liquid nitrogen, it gets to a state where it is ‘asleep’ or frozen and thus all cellular activity ceases and the genetic material remains preserved. The tanks have biotechnical checks to determine their temperatures and have alarms that alert the facility in case these temperatures affect the samples stored. The length of storage has no upper limit; sperm can be stored frozen for over 30 years and are still viable. However, it is important to regularly confirm the continuation of storage agreements and update any changes in personal information or future fertility plans with the fertility centre. Patients should also be aware of legal and ethical considerations, particularly regarding how long sperm can be stored, which might vary by region or country, and discuss these aspects with their fertility specialist to align with their personal needs and legal frameworks.

Cost Considerations

In addition to the initial costs, it is important to consider the ongoing expenses associated with freezing sperm. Many fertility centres charge an annual storage fee that needs to be paid to maintain the samples in optimal conditions. These fees can vary widely but are essential for ensuring that your sperm remains securely stored under the required ultra-low temperatures.

Furthermore, prospective clients should be aware of potential costs related to the thawing and use of the sperm. Each attempt at fertilisation using the thawed sperm may incur additional charges, including the costs of the fertility treatment itself, such as IVF or IUI. It is advisable to discuss these details with your chosen fertility centre to understand the full financial scope of the procedure.

Lastly, some centres offer packages or membership plans that include multiple years of storage at a discounted rate. These options can provide significant savings over time and are worth considering if long-term storage is anticipated. Always ensure clear communication and request a detailed breakdown of all costs to avoid unexpected expenses down the line.

Choosing the Right Fertility Centre

Choosing the best fertility center for sperm freezing requires careful consideration of several specific factors. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Reputation – Check online reviews and ensure accreditation.
• Expertise – Look for experienced staff who specialise in sperm freezing.
• Facilities – Ensure they use advanced technology and have secure storage.
• Cost – Get clear pricing information and check insurance coverage.
• Support – Look for counselling services and supportive staff.
• Convenience – Choose a nearby and easily accessible centre.
• Success Rates – Ask about their success rates and patient outcomes.
• Consultation – Ensure they provide clear information and make you feel comfortable.

By focusing on these points, you can choose the best fertility center for sperm freezing.

Felicity: Your Guide in Your Fertility Journey

For those exploring options for freezing sperm in Hyderabad, Felicity IVF & Fertility Center is your premier destination. Renowned for our exceptional fertility services, our centre combines cutting-edge technology with a warm, supportive environment, ensuring you receive the highest standards of care. Our transparent approach to sperm freezing costs means there are no surprises, just clear, straightforward information to help you plan your journey to parenthood.

At Felicity IVF & Fertility Center, we understand that deciding to freeze sperm is a significant step towards securing your future family. Whether you are preemptively managing a health condition or planning for the future, our expert team is here to support every step of your fertility journey with professional care and the utmost discretion.

Choose Felicity IVF & Fertility Center—where your dreams of becoming a parent are nurtured, protected, and turned into reality. Remember, the path to parenthood is unique for everyone, and choosing the right fertility centre is key to ensuring a successful and positive experience. Let us be part of your journey; contact us today to find out more about how we can assist you with your reproductive needs.

FAQS