Why Store Your Sperm?
A vasectomy is a permanent sterilization procedure for men. As such, many men opt to store sperm "just in case" they later become one of the 5-10 percent of men who change their mind because of an unexpected misfortune, such as the loss of a child or change in relationship. Cryopreservation (Freezing / Storage) of sperm is an excellent option before your vasectomy and can lead later, if needed, in many cases to successful conception using IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) or IUI (Intrauterine Insemination).
What is Cryopreservation of Sperm Cells?
Semen cryopreservation (commonly called sperm banking or sperm freezing) is a procedure to preserve sperm cells. A semen sample is collected from a patient and then securely stored in a tank of liquid nitrogen, keeping the sample frozen at -321 degrees Fahrenheit. While samples can be stored indefinitely, patients at any time can request their sample be sent to a clinic for fertility procedures such as a IUI (intrauterine insemination) or IVF (in vitro fertilization).
What is the Cost for Cryopreservation?
The cost for the full semen analysis, STI testing and 5 years of storage with Fellow is normally $889, but with our partnership with Fellow we are able to offer our patients the discounted price of $849. This makes sperm banking more affordable and accessible, than with other labs that can charge between $1500 and $2000.
How is Cryopreservation done? Easy Process. Secure Storage.
- Contact us at The Vasectomy Institute of California to arrange your purchase and the delivery of your Fellow Home Cryopreservation “Kit”. You can reach our staff at 1-888-VASECTOMY. Your kit includes everything needed to provide your sample and mail it back. This includes full instructions, a prepaid overnight shipping label and a preservation solution to keep your sample in optimal condition until it reaches the laboratory where is will be processed, frozen & stored.
- If you choose to order the “Kit”, be sure to contact us preferably at least a couple of weeks before your vasectomy to allow time for the ordering and processing of your semen specimen. Be sure to follow the instructions in your kit carefully. We are here to help if you have any questions. In rare cases, there may be insufficient sperm in your specimen and you will need to send another specimen.
- Receive accurate fertility results in 1-2 days.
Your sample is analyzed and stored in 3 vials in Fellows CLIA certified lab. Each vial can be used for a fertility procedure such as IVF or IUI. Your results will explain all this in more depth.
- Complete our complimentary STI test.
A majority of fertility clinics will only accept semen samples that have been screened for HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C, and HTLV-1, so that they can take the necessary precautions when using your sample to create a baby. Your STI testing is completed through a local laboratory at no additional charge.
- Use your sample when you need it.
Samples can be stored indefinitely. When you’re ready to use your sample, email Fellow and they'll ship your sample to your clinic (fees apply).
Questions and Answers
Is storing my sperm something I should do?
This is a great question. Freezing sperm is like an insurance policy that ensures that you have healthy sperm available, if you need to use them in the future.
Can every sample be stored?
A sample that has motile (or swimming) sperm cells inside is stored. While samples that contain more cells increase a likelihood of pregnancy, samples with just a few sperm cells can still be used to attempt a pregnancy. In your report, you'll be told how many cells are being stored and you’ll be given recommendations.
How much sperm should I store?
Your sample will be divided into 3 vials, giving you 3 attempts for a pregnancy.
Do sperm cells die in the shipping process?
Your kit includes a vial of preservation solution that is used to stabilize your sample and a gel pack that keeps your sample at the right temperature. Kits are also sent with overnight shipping.
Does using cryopreserved sperm increase the chance of genetic abnormalities?
Using Cryopreserved sperm has not been linked to an increased risk of birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities.
How does Fellow protect my privacy?
The box is discreet, so you can feel comfortable dropping it off at UPS. Your sample is stored independently of your personally identifying information. The lab has 24/7 security and monitoring.
Can I extend the time that the sperm are preserved?
Yes, Fellow will be storing your sperm, so you will want to contact them to extend the time period for any additional time. Fellow also will contact you before the expiration to see if you would like to extend your storage period at an extra cost.
What is the cost to retrieve my sample?
When you wish to use your sample, Fellow will coordinate with your licensed fertility clinic. There will be a one-time extraction fee of $55 to remove your sample from Fellow's facility and an additional shipping fee to cover the cost of shipping your sample to your clinic.
Does insurance cover this?
Your insurance may cover sperm storage. You can speak with your insurance provider for more details.
If you have any further questions, please be sure to contact us at 888-VASECTOMY or you can wait until your Telehealth Consultation and Dr. Benderev will be happy to answer them.
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