|
Why do we need sperm storage?
Unfortunately, certain medical and surgical treatments can
affect reproductive function and fertility, sometimes permanently. Sperm
storage prior to treatment therefore provides an alternative by preserving
fertility outside the body and, with advances with assisted conception
techniques, offers a realistic chance of achieving a future pregnancy.
Who is it appropriate for?
Any male of reproductive age undergoing treatment, which is
likely to impair his fertility, is suitable for sperm storage. These
include:-
· Chemotherapy/radiotherapy
· Bladder neck surgery
· Urological surgery e.g. prostate
· Vasectomy
How are semen specimens produced and stored?
Samples are usually produced by masturbation. We recognise
that this can sometimes be quite embarrassing and we therefore provide a
private comfortable room for your use. If you feel uncomfortable with this,
then arrangements can be made to bring in your sample from home as long as
it reaches us within 60 minutes of it being produced.
The sperm are analysed (sperm count and swimming ability)
and mixed with a cryopreservative which protects your sperm during the
freezing process. We uniquely label all samples with your name, date of
birth and a code number. Space is allocated in our cryo-refrigerator and the
samples will remain in storage at temperatures as low as -190°C until
required or until we are instructed to dispose of them.
Appointments
You can contact us directly to arrange your storage. Up to 3
appointments may be arranged and storage can commence usually within a few
days. If you are not under the care of a specific consultant then you can
make your own appointment by phoning 0121 627 2738.
Most commonly asked questions about sperm storage:-
Can my wife/partner accompany me?
You can be accompanied by anyone you choose but it
is fine if you prefer to be seen alone.
What is the cost of storage?
Currently, the initial fee for sperm freezing and
storage is £250. Subsequently, a £125 annual maintenance fee is required.
However, if you are referred by another hospital they will quite often cover
this cost.
How long can I store my sperm for?
The maximum storage period permissible by law is 10
years and you can only keep it in storage until you reach the age of 55.
However, extensions to the 10-year limit can be granted in exceptional
circumstances. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU KEEP IN CONTACT WITH US ANNUALLY TO
ENSURE CONTINUATION OF YOUR STORAGE, failure to do this could result in the
destruction of your samples.
What happens if something goes wrong with my
storage?
We endeavour to keep your sample in the best
condition possible. However we cannot provide guarantees for the condition
of the samples, particularly in the event of strike, civil disturbance,
equipment failure and any abnormal circumstance which may affect our
service.
How do I use my sperm in the future?
To use your sperm to achieve a pregnancy, you will
need some form of help from either our clinic or another. This help could
take the form of a simple insemination, timed to the ovulation (release of
the egg) of your partner, or occasionally more involved forms of treatment
such as IVF or ICSI (please link). In most cases treatment is not available
on the NHS and there is a cost implication. To pursue treatment, the clinic
requires a letter from your GP or hospital doctor. You will then be seen by
one of our specialists who will advise you on which treatment will give you
the best chance of a pregnancy. However, you must bear in mind that we
cannot give firm guarantees of treatment success.
What if my sperm are poor?
Sperm can be poor for a number of reasons and sperm
are often damaged during the freezing process itself, reducing their ability
to fertilise the egg. If this happens, we can offer treatments such as
IVF or
ICSI to
help poor sperm in fertilising the egg.
Further information:-
Please contact us at the Andrology Centre on 0121-627-2738
between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
|
