Name of the Procedure:

Storage (per year); sperm/semen

Common name(s): Semen Storage, Sperm Banking
Technical term: Cryopreservation of Sperm

Summary

Semen storage involves collecting and storing sperm in a specialized facility for future use. It is often utilized by individuals who wish to preserve their fertility due to medical treatments, lifestyle choices, or age-related concerns.

Purpose

Semen storage addresses the need to preserve fertility in men who may experience a decline in sperm quality or quantity over time due to medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgeries, or simply due to advancing age. The goal is to provide an option for biological children in the future.

Indications

• Males undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation)
• Pre-vasectomy patients
• Transgender individuals transitioning with hormone therapy
• Men with progressive illnesses affecting fertility
• Men considering age-related decline in fertility

Preparation

• No need for fasting or medication adjustments.
• Avoid ejaculation 2-3 days before sample collection to ensure optimal sperm quality.
• Inform the clinic of any medications or illnesses.
• Conduct a semen analysis to ensure the quality and quantity of sperm.

Procedure Description

1. Sample Collection:

   • The patient provides a semen sample through masturbation into a sterile container.
   • Samples can be collected at home or in a clinic setting.

2. Semen Analysis and Processing:

   • The sample is analyzed for sperm count, motility, and morphology.
   • If the sample meets criteria, it is mixed with a cryoprotectant.

3. Freezing:

   • The sample is slowly cooled and then plunged into liquid nitrogen tanks.
   • Proper labeling and documentation follow.

Duration

The initial freezing process takes a few hours, but storage is charged on an annual basis.

Setting

Typically performed in a fertility clinic or specialized cryopreservation facility.

Personnel

• Andrologist or reproductive specialist
• Laboratory technicians

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks to the patient from the collection procedure.
• Potential risk of sperm degradation over extended periods.
• Risk of contamination or accidents affecting stored samples, though rare.

Benefits

• Preservation of fertility for future use.
• Allows for family planning flexibility.
• Peace of mind for those undergoing treatments or procedures that impact fertility.

Recovery

• No recovery time is necessary.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after providing a sample.

Alternatives

• Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) for men with no ejaculate sperm.
• Utilizing donor sperm.
• Adoption or choosing child-free living.

Patient Experience

• Some men find the sample collection process slightly uncomfortable or awkward but typically pain-free.
• Emotional reassurance from having preserved fertility options.