Basics of Sperm Freezing What You Need to Know - Dr Vaishali Chaudhary

Due to a number of medical, societal, and lifestyle variables, sperm freezing has become quite popular in the last few years as an essential reproductive technology. As a result of improvements in cancer therapies, more men are living to adulthood; but, side effects from radiation or chemotherapy may affect their ability to reproduce.

The rising demand for sperm freezing has also been attributed to societal shifts such postponing parenting for professional or personal reasons and increased knowledge of genetic disorders. In addition to protecting future fertility, this technology gives men more flexibility and sovereignty over their reproductive systems.

What is Sperm Freezing?

Sperm freezing is also known as sperm cryopreservation. Sperm freezing includes the collection and preservation of semen samples in liquid nitrogen at -196°C. This procedure is utilized for various medical and personal reasons, including low sperm counts, military deployments, and individuals about to undergo cancer treatments that could harm their fertility. The process involves collecting, analysing, and storing sperm.

Sperm freezing is particularly beneficial for men undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or certain surgeries that may impair fertility. Additionally, it serves men with occupations that expose them to hazardous environments, those planning to delay parenthood, or individuals with genetic disorders that could affect fertility.

Why Consider Sperm Freezing?

There are several reasons why its sperm freezing should be considered, which includes -

1. Medical Reasons: Men diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses that require treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, which can impair fertility, often choose to freeze their sperm beforehand.

2. Surgical Procedures: Men undergoing surgeries that might affect their reproductive organs or fertility may opt for sperm freezing.

3. Occupational Hazards: Individuals in professions with high risks of exposure to toxic substances, such as military personnel or chemical workers, may consider sperm freezing.

4. Age-Related Fertility Decline: Men concerned about the natural decline in sperm quality with age can preserve their younger, healthier sperm.

5. Family Planning: Those who want to delay fatherhood for personal, career, or financial reasons can ensure their future ability to have biological children.

Process for Sperm Freezing

The process of sperm freezing involves several steps:

1. Sperm Collection: Sperm is typically collected through masturbation at a clinic or by using a collection condom during intercourse. In some cases, surgical retrieval might be necessary.

2. Semen Analysis: The collected sample undergoes thorough analysis to assess sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape).

3. Processing and Freezing: The sperm is then mixed with a cryoprotectant, a substance that protects the cells during the freezing process. The sample is gradually cooled and then stored in liquid nitrogen at temperatures of -196°C.

4. Storage: According to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laws, semen samples can be preserved for up to ten years. In special cases, such as young cancer patients, samples can be stored for longer periods with appropriate permissions. Theoretically, as long as the samples remain in liquid nitrogen at -196°C, they can be preserved indefinitely without quality degradation.

Success Rates and Longevity

The success rates of sperm freezing largely depend on the initial quality of the sperm and the freezing techniques used. Modern cryopreservation methods, such as vitrification, have significantly improved the survival rates of thawed sperm.

Considerations and Potential Risks

While sperm freezing is generally safe and effective, there are some considerations and potential risks to be aware of:

1. Sperm Quality: The quality of sperm before freezing plays a crucial role in post-thaw viability. Poor-quality sperm may have lower chances of successful fertilization.

2. Storage Duration: Although long-term storage is possible, some studies suggest a slight decline in sperm quality over extended periods.

3. Legal and Ethical Considerations: It’s essential to understand the legal and ethical implications of sperm freezing, including ownership rights and usage agreements, especially in cases of death or incapacitation.

4. Cost: The cost of sperm freezing and storage can vary. It’s important to consider the financial aspect and ensure that you are aware of all associated fees.

Preparing for Sperm Freezing

Preparation for sperm freezing includes several important steps:

1. Abstinence: Men should abstain from ejaculation for 2-3 days before providing a sample. Longer periods of abstinence can result in dead sperms and abnormal substances in the semen.

2. Health Screening: Blood tests to screen for infections such as HIV and hepatitis, and a basic semen analysis to check for any infections or abnormalities, are typically conducted before freezing.

Success Rates in Different Treatments

The use of frozen sperm in various fertility treatments shows varying success rates:

1. IVF and ICSI: Whether fresh or frozen sperm is used, success rates in IVF and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) are similar. This is because only a few high-quality sperms are needed in this process.

2. IUI: Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) typically shows higher success rates with fresh sperm compared to frozen sperm, as a larger quantity of motile sperm is required.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Comprehensive counselling is provided to discuss the duration of storage, financial responsibilities, and legal agreements regarding the disposition of the sperm in case of death or failure to maintain storage payments. Consent forms covering these aspects are signed before the freezing process.

Sperm freezing is a valuable process in reproductive medicine, offering hope and options to individuals and couples facing various fertility challenges. Whether for medical reasons, personal choice, or future planning, sperm cryopreservation provides a reliable method to preserve fertility.

By understanding the benefits and procedures involved, men can make proactive decisions about their reproductive health, securing their ability to father children in the future. As awareness and acceptance grow, more individuals will have the opportunity to preserve their fertility and achieve their family planning goals.