Interesting Facts About Sperm Freezing
Sperm freezing, also known as sperm cryopreservation, is a method that helps men preserve sperm for long-term use in the future without reducing its quality.
This technique provides an opportunity for men to have biological children later in life, even if they are at risk of infertility. Sperm freezing is particularly beneficial for couples who want to safeguard male reproductive health for the future. With cryopreservation, human sperm can be stored for extended periods while maintaining its viability. Below are some interesting facts about sperm freezing.
What Is Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing, or sperm cryopreservation, is the process of freezing and preserving sperm in liquid nitrogen at a temperature of –196°C.
This procedure is commonly performed by men who plan to undergo assisted reproductive treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Who Needs Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing may be recommended for men who meet the following criteria:
Tanya Mincah tentang Promil?
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Undergoing cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation, which can negatively impact fertility.
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Planning to delay parenthood.
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Having a high-mobility lifestyle that makes participation in fertility programs challenging.
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Planning to undergo a vasectomy.
In addition, according to Dr. Maitra, sperm freezing may also be considered for men who have difficulties producing sperm. In such cases, this procedure can serve as a way to preserve sperm quality and ensure availability for future fertility treatments.
How Is Sperm Freezing Done?
Many men may not fully understand the steps involved in sperm freezing. Here are several key stages of the procedure:
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Medical consultation with an andrology specialist to discuss medical history and any ongoing treatments.
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Semen analysis to evaluate sperm quality, count, motility, and morphology. This also helps detect certain medical conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections.
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Written consent must be provided before undergoing the procedure.
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Semen collection, typically through ejaculation into a sterile container.
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Sperm selection, where the highest-quality sperm are chosen and stored in liquid nitrogen at –196°C.
How Long Can Frozen Sperm Be Stored?
Frozen sperm stored in liquid nitrogen at –196°C can last for extremely long periods without losing quality.
According to Dr. Maitra, the storage duration of frozen sperm, eggs, and embryos is unlimited. In fact, sperm may remain viable for 100 to 500 years, as long as it is kept in liquid nitrogen.
“(The storage duration) is unlimited. It could be 100 years, even 500 years, as long as it remains in liquid nitrogen,” explained Dr. Maitra.
However, according to Indonesia’s Ministry of Health Regulation No. 2 of 2025, Article 49, the official storage period for gametes (sperm, eggs, and embryos) is initially set for 1 year and may be extended at the request of married couples.
What Happens When Frozen Sperm Is Thawed?
After being cryopreserved, sperm can be stored for the long term and later used for reproductive treatments such as IVF or IUI.
When thawed, some sperm may lose viability. However, the number of sperm that remain alive is usually sufficient and of good quality to fertilize an egg successfully.
Thus, thawed sperm can still be effectively used to support pregnancy programs.
How Is Frozen Sperm Thawed?
The thawing process must be performed carefully to preserve sperm quality. There are two commonly used methods:
1. Incubator Method
Frozen sperm is placed in an incubator at 37°C for about 15 minutes or until completely thawed.
2. Room Temperature Method
Frozen sperm is left at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or until fully thawed.
It is important to note that sudden or excessive temperature changes may damage sperm. For this reason, thawing should avoid direct light exposure and mechanical shocks that could compromise sperm quality.
Conclusion
These are some important facts men should know before undergoing sperm freezing. The procedure can be performed with or without medical indications, making it an option for anyone who wishes to preserve fertility for the future.
If you are considering sperm freezing, consult with an andrology specialist to determine the best plan for your reproductive health.
Source:
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Edge, B., et al. (2005). Sperm banking in adolescent cancer patients. Arch Dis Child. 2005 Sep 20;91(2):149–152.
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Hinting, A., Agustinus. (2020). Recent updates of sperm cryopreservation technique: a literature review. IJBS 2020; 14(2): 92-98.
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Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia Regulation No. 2 of 2025 on Reproductive Health Efforts.
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