Name of the Procedure:

Cryopreservation; sperm (Sperm Freezing, Semen Cryopreservation)

Summary

Cryopreservation of sperm involves collecting and freezing a man’s sperm to preserve it for future use. This procedure is useful for men who may face infertility due to medical treatments, surgery, or other reasons.

Purpose

Cryopreservation addresses the potential loss of fertility in men caused by various medical conditions or treatments. The goal is to store sperm in a way that preserves its viability for future reproductive use.

Indications

• Men undergoing cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation) that may impact fertility.
• Those undergoing surgery or medical procedures that may harm the reproductive organs.
• Men with conditions that may lead to infertility over time.
• Men planning vasectomy but who wish to preserve their fertility.
• Men with low sperm counts or motility that fluctuates.

Preparation

• A fertility specialist consultation is recommended.
• Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before providing a sample to ensure optimal sperm quality.
• Routine tests to check for infections or sexually transmitted diseases may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Sample Collection: The patient collects a semen sample through masturbation in a private room at the clinic.
2. Analysis: The sample is analyzed for sperm count, motility, and morphology.
3. Processing: The semen is mixed with a special cryoprotectant solution to protect sperm during freezing.
4. Freezing: The sample is gradually cooled and then stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C.

Duration

The entire process, including collection, analysis, and freezing, typically takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a fertility clinic or a specialized lab equipped for cryopreservation.

Personnel

• Fertility specialists
• Lab technicians

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks are associated with semen collection.
• Rare complications may include infection or injury during sample collection.
• Possible slight reduction in sperm quality due to freezing and thawing.

Benefits

• Preservation of fertility potential for men undergoing treatments or procedures that could affect their fertility.
• Provides options for future family planning.
• Thawed sperm can be used in intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• No immediate follow-up is usually required, but periodic updates to evaluate stored samples may be suggested.

Alternatives

• Delaying medical treatments that impact fertility to allow for natural conception.
• Using donor sperm if fertility is compromised.
• Adoption or other family-building options.

Patient Experience

• Most patients experience minimal discomfort.
• Emotional support and counseling may be offered to help manage any anxiety related to fertility preservation.
• Pain management is generally not required.