Sperm Freezing Lara
Trusted sperm freezing services, provided with compassion.
Take Charge of Your Reproductive 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 is ready to guide you with caring, personalised support as you explore your fertility options.
Understanding 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 ready, this sperm may then be used for IVF (in vitro fertilisation) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic injection). As sperm quality may be higher at a younger age, freezing sperm earlier may have greater benefits in the future.
Is Sperm Freezing Worth Considering?
Sperm freezing is generally something anyone may consider, particularly given that sperm quality and quantity may vary with age. It may also be a worthwhile option if you:
- Are experiencing a low sperm count
- Are planning to delay family planning for the time being
- 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
- Occasionally use anabolic steroidss
Wondering if sperm freezing is right for you?
Our caring team is here to help you through every step of the process.
Understanding the Sperm Freezing Process
1. Sperm Collection
Sperm may be collected in a variety of ways, tailored to your individual needs and preferences. You may provide a sample at our clinic for immediate freezing, or at home if that is more convenient.
If providing a semen sample is not possible, a testicular biopsy may be considered. This is a procedure in which sperm is carefully collected directly from the testicles with a needle.
2. Freezing the Sperm
Once the sperm has been collected, it is carefully prepared and mixed with a protective fluid. The sample is then progressively cooled until it reaches a frozen state in liquid nitrogen at –196°C.
Not every sperm will survive the freezing process. On average, 50-60% of sperm remain viable following 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.
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
Does Medicare cover sperm freezing?
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.
However, ongoing sperm storage fees are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance and are typically paid out of pocket.
How much should I expect to pay for sperm freezing?
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?
At your appointment, one of our team members will meet with you to go over your medical history, discuss your fertility goals, and arrange any blood tests that may be needed.
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?
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.
Can freezing sperm lead to pregnancy complications?
What are my options if I decide to stop storing my sperm?
If you choose to stop storage, you may be asked to complete consent documentation. Our team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Why People 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
Providing fertility care since 2002, our team stays up to date with the latest evidence and technology, so you may feel confident with us.
Consistent, Convenient Hours
Our clinic is open Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, making it easier for you to fit your appointments around your everyday commitments.
Find Fertility Support When You're Ready
Should you be considering sperm preservation, our team is ready to help. We use evidence-based approaches to support your fertility planning, so you may make well-informed decisions for the future. You are always welcome to get in touch with our team to talk through your concerns or learn more about sperm freezing.
