Sperm preservation Werribee
Trusted sperm freezing services, provided with compassion.
Consider Your Fertility Options
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, our team is here to support you with compassionate, patient-focused care as you consider your fertility options.
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.
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.
Could Sperm Freezing Be the Right Choice for You?
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:
- 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 planning to begin toxic drug treatment in the future
- Have a history of using anabolic steroids at timess
Considering sperm freezing?
Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
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
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 every sperm will survive the freezing process. On average, 50-60% of sperm remain viable following freezing.
3. Storage
Once frozen, your sperm is stored safely until the time comes to use it. Ongoing storage may involve an annual fee, and our team will be happy to discuss this 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.
Answering Your Sperm Freezing Questions
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.
How much does sperm freezing cost?
The overall cost may vary based on your individual situation and storage requirements. For more details, we encourage you to visit our costs page or speak with our team.
What does my appointment involve?
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 should I prepare before sperm collection?
You may be asked to refrain from ejaculation for a short time before collection takes place. Specific advice may be given ahead of your appointment to support the process.
Does freezing sperm increase the risk of pregnancy complications?
What happens if I choose to discontinue sperm 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
No two people are the same, and we believe care should reflect that. That is why we provide personalised, patient-centred support that puts you first.
Decades of Experience
Since 2002, our team has been providing fertility care while staying current with the latest evidence and technology, so you may feel confident throughout your journey with us.
Consistent, Convenient Hours
Open Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, we make it easier for you to manage your appointments and daily commitments.
Access Fertility Support at a Time That Suits You
If you’re considering sperm preservation, our team is here to help. We use evidence-based methods to support your fertility planning, so you may make informed choices for the future. You’re always welcome to speak with our team to discuss your concerns or learn more about sperm freezing.
