0124-4882222
Sperm Freezing
Sperm Freezing at Birla Fertility & IVF
Why Sperm Freezing
Sperm Freezing Process
Sperm Freezing Video
Sperm Freezing FAQs
Sperm Freezing at Birla Fertility & IVF
Sperm freezing is a form of fertility treatment that allows us to preserve sperm for future IUI, IVF or IVF-ICSI cycles.
We offer advanced sperm freezing and storage facility for men who wish to preserve their fertility for medical or social reasons. We also offer single sperm vitrification in case of severe male factor infertility. Our team is experienced in performing flash freezing with precision and work in seamless collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to offer comprehensive treatments for fertility preservation.
Why Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing is recommended in the following situations:
A planned vasectomy
In case of treatments for cancer like chemotherapy
Any medical condition that can increase the risk of infertility in the future
In case of male factor infertility like low sperm count or poor-quality sperm
In case of exposure to life-threatening situations
The Sperm Freezing Process
Prior to the treatment, you as well as your semen sample is tested for sperm as well as certain viral infections like HIV and hepatitis. In case the results of the semen analysis indicate low quantity or absence of sperm cells in the sample, surgical extraction of sperm (PESA, TESE, micro TESE) is recommended.
Post the completion of the preliminary check-up, you would be required to provide a semen sample for the freezing process. You would be asked to abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days prior to sample collection to ensure optimal sperm quality at the time of collection.
Cryoprotectants (or anti-freeze agents) are used to preserve and protect sperm cells during the freezing process. The sample is frozen using liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -196°C. The frozen samples are stored in sealed vials and kept in a state of suspended animation till they have to be thawed for fertility treatments.
Experts Speak
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can sperm be frozen for?
Frozen sperm can be stored in a state of suspended animation indefinitely. Regulatory bodies have defined a maximum storage period of 10 years which is extended indefinitely for patients with medical conditions like cancer that can impair their fertility.
How is sperm frozen?
The sample is frozen using liquid nitrogen which is at a temperature of -196°C. Successful cryopreservation involves draining cell water and replacing it with cryoprotectant or antifreeze agents. This is done through simple osmosis. Once frozen, the sperm cells are in suspended animation where all metabolic activity is effectively stopped, enabling it to be stored as long as this temperature is maintained.
What if the semen sample has no sperm count?
If the preliminary assessment of the sperm sample indicates absence of sperm (azoospermia), surgical extraction of sperm can be recommended to obtain sperm for freezing or fertility treatments
What are the risks of Sperm Freezing?
There is a small risk of the sperm not surviving the freezing and thawing process. However, advancements in cryopreservation technology and use of antifreeze agents have significantly reduced this risk.
Patient Testimonials
At the start of 2020, we came to Birla Fertility & IVF Hospital for our family planning consultation. After having a good discussion with our doctor, we decided to have sperm freezing. Due to COVID, we do not want to plan our family, also the COVID situation was uncertain. Five months back, we decided to have a family. Thank you, Birla Fertility, for making our dreams come true. The whole team, including doctors, nurses, office staff, were helpful and cooperative. We strongly recommend this hospital for any IVF related treatment.
I conceived with IVF in the first cycle after five years of marriage at Birla Fertility & IVF. I am grateful to all doctors, staff, and other team members, for being so supportive and understanding throughout the journey. The hospital offers the best infertility treatment.
Our Services
To Know More
Speak to our experts and take your first steps towards parenthood. To book an appointment or to make an enquiry, please leave your details and we will get back to you.
Learn more about fertility
No, Blog To Show