Fertility Preservation Anglesea
Sperm freezing grounded in evidence, offered with genuine care.
Plan Ahead for Your Fertility Future
Are you concerned about your sperm fertility? Sperm freezing is a trusted method of fertility preservation that may give you more flexibility for the future, so that you can consider family planning at your own pace.
At Surfcoast Fertility, our team provides caring, considerate support to help you navigate your fertility options.
About Sperm Freezing
Sperm freezing is a procedure in which sperm is collected and frozen through a carefully managed process. It may then be stored for a number of years while preserving sperm viability and quality.
When the time comes, this sperm may be used for IVF (in vitro fertilisation) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic injection). Since sperm quality may be higher at a younger age, there may be advantages to freezing sperm earlier rather than later.
Thinking About Whether Sperm Freezing is Right for You?
Sperm freezing is an option that may suit anyone, as sperm quality and quantity can change over time. It may be especially worth considering if you:
- Have been told you have a low sperm count
- Do not have immediate plans to start a family
- Are planning on a vasectomy for contraception|Are considering a vasectomy as a form of contraception|Are thinking about having a vasectomy for contraceptive purposes|Are planning to undergo a vasectomy for contraception}
- Require testicular surgery or chemotherapy|Are facing testicular surgery or chemotherapy|Are due to undergo testicular surgery or chemotherapy|Have been advised to have testicular surgery or chemotherapy}
- Are due to commence toxic drug treatment at a future date
- Use anabolic steroids at timess
Thinking about sperm freezing?
Our team is ready to guide and support you throughout the process.
Understanding the Sperm Freezing Process
1. Sperm Collection
There are several ways sperm may be collected, depending on what suits your individual needs and preferences. A sample may be collected at our clinic for prompt freezing, or at home if required.
Should you be unable to provide a semen sample, a testicular biopsy may be an option worth considering. This procedure involves the careful retrieval of sperm directly from the testicles using a needle.
2. Freezing the Sperm
Following collection, the sperm is carefully prepared and blended with a protective fluid. The sample is then gradually cooled and frozen in liquid nitrogen at –196°C.
Not all sperm will survive this process. Typically, 50-60% of sperm remain viable after freezing.
3. Storage
When frozen, sperm is held in secure storage until it is needed. Our team will discuss any ongoing annual storage fees with you during your consultation.
Under Victorian guidelines, sperm may be stored for up to 10 years. If storage is required beyond this timeframe, approval may need to be obtained.
Your Sperm Freezing Questions Answered
Can I claim sperm freezing through Medicare?
Medicare rebates may be accessible if the procedure is regarded as medically necessary. This may be the case if you are preparing to undergo treatment, such as chemotherapy, that could have an impact on your fertility.
It is important to note that ongoing sperm storage fees are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance and are generally an out-of-pocket expense.
How much does sperm freezing cost?
Costs may vary depending on your individual circumstances and storage requirements. For more information, visit our costs page or reach out to our team.
What happens at my appointment?
When you come in for your appointment, a member of our team will sit down with you to review your medical history, discuss your goals, and coordinate any necessary blood tests.
They will also go through all the important information you need before sperm collection takes place, so you may feel confident and supported throughout the process.
How do I prepare for sperm collection?
You may be advised to abstain from ejaculation for a short period before collection. Specific guidance may be provided ahead of your appointment to help the process.
Does the use of frozen sperm affect the risk of pregnancy complications?
What happens if I decide I no longer need storage?
Should you choose to stop storage, completing consent documentation may be required. Our team will support you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Why Patients Trust Surfcoast Fertility
Person-centred Care
We understand that every person is unique, and we believe your care should reflect that. That is why we are committed to offering personalised support that puts your needs first.
Decades of Experience
Having offered fertility care since 2002, our team keeps up to date with the latest evidence and technology, so you may feel assured in the care you receive.
Consistent, Convenient Hours
With consistent hours from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, we make it more convenient for you to manage your appointments and daily responsibilities.
Access Fertility Support at a Time That Suits You
If sperm preservation is something you are considering, our team is here to provide support. We apply evidence-based methods to assist with your fertility planning, so you may feel empowered to make informed choices for the future. We warmly welcome you to speak with our team about any concerns or to find out more about sperm freezing.
