Sperm Freezing
Sperm freezing, also known as sperm cryopreservation, is an increasingly common option for men who want to preserve their fertility for future use. During a the procedure sperm is collected, frozen, and stored at ultra-low temperatures to preserve it for future use. Whether you're facing a medical treatment that could affect your fertility, are planning for parenthood later in life, or simply want to keep your options open, freezing sperm is a proactive step toward reproductive planning.
When should you consider sperm freezing?
Sperm freezing is a good option for men in a variety of circumstances, including:
Planning parenthood later in life
As men age, sperm quality can decline, which may affect fertility and the chances of having a healthy child.
Studies have shown that sperm from people over 35 is 6 times more likely to result in an unhealthy pregnancy (source).
Occupation or lifestyle risks
Some professions—such as those involving exposure to chemicals or high heat—can damage sperm. Lifestyle choices can also negatively impact male fertility:
Men who reported using marijuana more than once per week had a 28% lower sperm concentration and a 29% lower sperm count than men who had never used marijuana (source).
The use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) among men over the age of 40 years has increased significantly over the last decade, but a major adviser effect of TRT is diminished sperm production (source).
Freezing sperm can protect fertility if your professional or personal life are high-risk.
Gender transition
Transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy or surgery may choose to freeze sperm prior to treatment.
Before cancer treatment
Chemotherapy and radiation can impair fertility, so freezing sperm before treatment can preserve reproductive options.
What is the process?
The process involves several key steps:
STEP 1 - Consultation and screening: You’ll begin by scheduling a consultation with a fertility specialist. During this consultation, you’ll discuss your reasons for freezing sperm, your medical history, and any potential risks. The clinic may perform blood tests to screen for infectious diseases and ensure your overall health.
Note: During this step, you will also have to consider some legal implications of freezing. Specifically, deciding what happens to your samples in various scenarios, including in the event of your death.
STEP 2 - Sperm collection: The next step is collecting a sperm sample. Typically, you will provide a semen sample through ejaculation at the clinic, although there are at-home kits available for certain situations. If necessary, multiple samples may be collected over several days to ensure there is an adequate quantity of sperm for freezing.
STEP 3 - Semen analysis: After collection, the semen is analyzed for sperm count, motility (how well the sperm move), and morphology (shape). This helps determine the quality of the sperm and how many vials can be frozen.
STEP 4 - Cryopreservation: Once the sample is analyzed, it’s mixed with a cryoprotectant—a solution that helps protect sperm cells during the freezing process. The sperm is then frozen using a method called vitrification and stored in liquid nitrogen at temperatures of -196°C (-321°F).
STEP 5 - Storage: The frozen sperm can remain stored indefinitely in cryogenic storage tanks until you are ready to use it. When needed, it can be thawed and used for fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Sperm freezing is generally very effective, with over 50% of sperm surviving the thawing process. If the sample is of high quality, this reduction isn’t an issue for successfully conceiving a healthy baby. This is because the average sperm count ranges from 15 million to more than 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
How much does sperm freezing cost?
The cost of sperm freezing varies depending on several factors, including the clinic, location, and any additional services. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
| Service | Approximate Cost ($CAD) |
|---|---|
| Initial consult and screeing | Typically covered by the fertility clinic or provincial healthcare. |
| Sperm collection and freezing | $500 - $1,000 |
| Annual storage | $200 - $500 |
Some clinics offer bundled packages for collection and storage, so it’s worth inquiring about discounted rates if you plan to store your sperm for multiple years. Keep in mind that some insurance plans or fertility benefits programs (such as those offered by Sprout Family) may cover part of the cost.
How long can frozen sperm be stored?
Sperm can be stored indefinitely without losing viability. Studies have shown that sperm frozen for over 20 years can still be used successfully in fertility treatments. This makes sperm freezing a reliable option for long-term fertility preservation.
How do you choose a clinic?
Choosing the right clinic for sperm freezing is crucial for ensuring quality care and success. Key factors to consider include the clinic’s reputation, success rates, and accreditation by medical regulatory bodies. Look for a clinic with experience in male fertility preservation and a specialist in cryopreservation. It's also important to understand costs, including collection, freezing, and storage, while considering payment plans if needed. Finally, consider your patient experience by choosing a convenient location and reading patient reviews to ensure a high level of care and professionalism.
Sperm freezing is a simple yet effective way to preserve fertility, giving men greater control over their reproductive future. By understanding the process, costs, and factors involved in choosing a clinic, you can make informed decisions about your fertility journey.
If you’re considering sperm freezing, we recommend booking a consultation with your Family-Building Advisor to discuss your options and get started on the path to preserving your fertility.
