Sperm Freezing Torquay
Evidence-based sperm freezing, delivered with care.
Take a Proactive Step in Fertility Preservation
Have you been thinking about your fertility? Sperm freezing is a well-regarded approach to fertility preservation that may offer you greater flexibility for the future, allowing you to consider family planning in your own time.
At Surfcoast Fertility, we are here to walk alongside you with compassionate, patient-centred care as you think through your fertility choices.
What is Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing is a process where sperm is collected and then frozen using a carefully controlled method. It may then be stored for many years while maintaining sperm viability and quality.
When the time is right, the stored sperm may be used for IVF (in vitro fertilisation) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic injection). As sperm quality may be greater at a younger age, choosing to freeze sperm earlier may offer more advantages down the track.
Could Sperm Freezing Be the Right Choice for You?
Sperm freezing is generally an option for anyone, especially as sperm quality and quantity may change with age. However, it may also be worth considering if you:
- Are experiencing a low sperm count
- Are not considering starting 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}
- Anticipate starting toxic drug treatment down the track
- Use anabolic steroids from time to times
Thinking about sperm freezing?
We are here to support you at every stage of your journey.
How the Sperm Freezing Process Works
1. Sperm Collection
Sperm may be collected in several ways, depending on your individual needs and preferences. A sample may be collected at our clinic for prompt freezing or at home if needed.
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
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 stored for up to 10 years. Approval may be required if you wish to continue storage beyond this timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sperm Freezing
Is sperm freezing covered by Medicare?
Medicare rebates may be applicable where the procedure is deemed medically necessary. This may be relevant if you are about to commence treatment, such as chemotherapy, that may impact your fertility.
Ongoing sperm storage fees are generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance and are usually an out-of-pocket cost to consider.
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 does my appointment involve?
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 go through all the important information you need before sperm collection takes place, so you may feel confident and supported throughout the process.
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.
Does the use of frozen sperm affect the risk of pregnancy complications?
What should I do if I no longer require sperm storage?
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.
What Sets Surfcoast Fertility Apart
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
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.
Find Fertility Support When You're Ready
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.
