Sperm Freezing

What is Fertility Preservation?

Fertility preservation refers to the cryopreservation and storage of reproductive cells (gametes- either eggs or sperm) or embryos (eggs fertilized by sperm) for future use. The advanced technique of vitrification, or flash-freezing, has improved the ability to efficiently preserve eggs and embryos for best chances of future success.

Who Should Consider Fertility Preservation?

• Individuals diagnosed with cancer in their reproductive years should consider fertility preservation prior to starting treatment.

• Chemotherapeutic agents can be toxic to reproductive organs, specifically ovaries and testicles where the reproductive cells are produced and stored. Preserving gametes prior to treatment can give patients peace of mind that they can still start or expand their family in the future.

• Individuals who choose to delay becoming pregnant for social reasons—career choices, continuing education, lack of partner, or other personal reasons—and who want to give themselves access to “younger” eggs allowing for higher chances at pregnancy.

• Individuals with autoimmune disorders who must be on medications that may destroy reproductive function.

• Individuals who have been advised to have their ovaries removed (for example, due to severe endometriosis.)

• Transgender individuals who wish to preserve genetic material prior to transition.

• Individuals who choose to delay reproducing until later in life or are considering a vasectomy.