As freezing eggs becomes increasingly common, many couples may wonder whether they should also consider freezing (or banking) their sperm. Sperm banking or freezing is more formally known as cryopreservation. The process essentially comprises accumulating sperm, freezing it, and reusing it at a later date. Fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization and intrauterine insemination may use the frozen sperm once they have been thawed. However, sperm freezing Fort Worth is not like deciding where to sit at a ballgame or how to prepare a steak. In many situations, this choice will have lasting effects. Here are some reasons to have your sperm frozen:
1. Treatments for cancer
In preparation for cancer treatment, freezing sperm is one of the most feasible options. You can protect your fertility from potentially irreversible damage caused by radiation or chemotherapy if you freeze your sperm before undergoing cancer treatment. It is especially important if you hope to have biological children.
2. High-risk workers
High-risk occupations may also encourage sperm freezing. The same goes for those who work in potentially dangerous workplaces, such as the military or laboratories where toxic chemicals are used, who may want to explore sperm freezing as a precaution. While it is unpleasant to contemplate, it is better to be prepared for the worst in the event of an accident on the job by freezing your sperm ahead of time.
3. If you wish to delay having children
Researchers in 2011 noted that male infertility due to advancing age is a growing problem while receiving less attention than female infertility. Semen quality declines with age, and DNA fragmentation rises in older men. You may want to think about sperm freezing if you are not ready to establish a family but want to have kids in the future.
4. Testicular and prostate surgery
Sperm freezing is recommended before any surgical procedure interferes with sperm production or delivery. If surgery led to obstructive azoospermia, correcting the problem or retrieving sperm would need further surgical intervention. An early sperm sample frozen in liquid nitrogen might save money later.
5. If you are facing particular health obstacles
It is common for those with erectile dysfunction to seek sperm freezing as a solution. Having a frozen sample on hand might relieve some anxiety associated with sperm testing and treatments. For the same reason, if you have a low sperm count, you may explore sperm freezing before undergoing assisted reproductive technology.
6. Hormone treatment for gender transition
Before starting hormone treatment like estrogen, trans people should consider preserving their fertility by freezing their sperm. If you ever decide you want biological children, freezing your sperm now will ensure that you have enough on hand without worrying about your future fertility.
Cryopreservation is something to discuss with your doctor if you have any doubts about it, particularly if you are worried about your future fertility. The choice to freeze your sperm is very personal, so you should give yourself plenty of time to think it over and consider all of the pros and cons. Don’t hesitate to contact CARE Fertility if you have any inquiries concerning sperm freezing.