Sperm Freezing Procedure
Sperm freezing is the process of collecting sperm cells (male reproductive cells) from men and freezing them in a laboratory setting for future use.
Who Can Benefit from Sperm Freezing?
Men with low sperm count or poor sperm quality,
Patients undergoing treatments such as cancer therapy (chemotherapy, radiotherapy) that may affect fertility,
Men who wish to postpone fatherhood to a later stage in life,
Those with occupations that involve a high risk of injury,
Men scheduled for surgeries that may affect reproductive cells,
Patients undergoing infertility treatments who may fail to produce sperm when needed,
Men donating sperm.
Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Male-related infertility accounts for about 30% of cases. Contrary to popular belief, male fertility also decreases with age. Research suggests that men planning to have children should consider freezing sperm while they are young and healthy to preserve higher fertility potential.
What is Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing refers to the collection, analysis, freezing, and storage of sperm cells. Frozen sperm can later be used in fertility treatments for the patient’s partner or donated for use in treating infertility caused by male factors in other individuals. This method, also known as sperm banking, is commonly referred to as sperm freezing.
Steps of the Sperm Freezing Process:
Routine tests (HIV, hepatitis, syphilis),
Collection of a sperm sample,
Laboratory analysis of sperm count, motility, and quality,
Freezing of viable sperm,
Long-term storage of frozen sperm.
How is Sperm Freezing Performed?
Sperm Collection: The first step is collecting sperm from the man. Sperm samples can be obtained in two ways:
Through masturbation in a sperm collection room at the clinic.
Through surgical procedures (MESA, TESA, PESA) in cases where sperm count is insufficient or ejaculation is not possible. These procedures are carried out under general or local anesthesia.
A 3-day period of sexual abstinence is recommended before giving a sample. Longer abstinence periods may increase sperm count but reduce sperm quality and motility.
Sperm Analysis: Collected sperm is analyzed to assess quality, quantity, and motility. The goal is to freeze only the healthiest sperm. If the first sample does not meet the desired standards, another sample may be requested. After analysis, sperm are frozen at -197°C using a special cryoprotectant solution and safely stored in liquid nitrogen tanks for many years.
Where is Sperm Freezing Done?
The success and safety of sperm freezing depend on the experience of the medical team and the laboratory infrastructure. It is essential that the center performing this procedure has state-of-the-art laboratory technology and skilled specialists. Our center has been successfully carrying out sperm freezing and thawing procedures for many years with advanced facilities and an experienced team.
Advantages of Sperm Freezing
Sperm freezing allows men to preserve fertility by storing healthy sperm at a younger age, increasing the chances of fatherhood later in life. It also provides opportunities for couples with male infertility, same-sex couples, or those undergoing treatments that may damage reproductive organs. By freezing sperm before such treatments, fertility can be preserved for future use.
