Fertility Preservation Anglesea
Evidence-based sperm freezing, delivered with care.
Consider Your Fertility Options
Are you considering your fertility options? Sperm freezing is a supported method of fertility preservation that may give you greater flexibility going forward, so that family planning can happen when the time feels right for you.
At Surfcoast Fertility, our team provides caring, considerate support to help you navigate your fertility options.
What is Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing is a process where sperm is collected and preserved through a carefully managed freezing method. It may be stored for an extended period while keeping sperm viability and quality intact.
Once needed, the frozen sperm may be used in IVF (in vitro fertilisation) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic injection). Given that sperm quality may be higher at a younger age, freezing sperm sooner may provide greater potential benefits in the future.
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:
- Are experiencing a low sperm count
- Are not planning on a family in the near future
- 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 planning to begin toxic drug treatment in the future
- Have a history of using anabolic steroids at timess
Thinking about sperm freezing?
Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
How the Sperm Freezing Process Works
1. Sperm Collection
Sperm collection may occur in a number of ways, based on your individual needs and preferences. A sample may be provided at our clinic for timely freezing, or at home if that is more suitable.
Where a semen sample cannot be provided, a testicular biopsy may be explored as an alternative. This procedure involves carefully retrieving sperm directly from the testicles using a needle.
2. Freezing the Sperm
After collection, the sperm is carefully prepared and combined with a protective fluid. The sample is then slowly cooled until it is frozen in liquid nitrogen at –196°C.
It is important to note that not all sperm will survive this process. Generally, 50-60% of sperm remain viable after freezing.
3. Storage
After freezing, sperm is kept in secure storage until it is required. Ongoing storage may incur an annual fee, which our team will talk through with you.
In Victoria, sperm may be kept in storage for a period of up to 10 years. Should you wish to continue storage beyond this time, approval may need to be sought.
Your Sperm Freezing Questions Answered
Is Medicare available for sperm freezing?
Medicare rebates may be available if the procedure is considered medically necessary. This may apply if you are about to undergo treatment, such as chemotherapy, that could affect your fertility.
However, ongoing sperm storage fees are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance and are typically paid out of pocket.
What are the costs involved in sperm freezing?
Costs may differ depending on your personal circumstances and storage requirements. To find out more, visit our costs page or contact our team directly.
What can I expect at my appointment?
At your appointment, a member of our team will meet with you for a consultation to review your medical history, discuss your goals, and arrange any necessary blood tests.
They will also walk you through everything you need to know prior to sperm collection, so you may feel well-informed and supported at every stage.
What should I do to prepare for sperm collection?
Abstaining from ejaculation for a short period before collection may be advised. Our team may provide specific guidance prior to your appointment to help things go smoothly.
Can freezing sperm lead to pregnancy complications?
What happens if I decide I no longer need storage?
Should you decide to discontinue storage, you may be required to complete consent documentation. Our team will be on hand to guide you through the process and address any questions you may have.
Reasons to Choose Surfcoast Fertility
Person-centred Care
Each person is different, and we believe their care should reflect that. That is why we provide personalised support that places you at the centre of everything we do.
Decades of Experience
With a history of providing fertility care since 2002, our team remains current with the latest evidence and technology, so you may feel at ease knowing you are in capable hands.
Consistent, Convenient Hours
Available Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 5 pm, we aim to make it straightforward for you to manage your appointments alongside your daily commitments.
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.
