Fertility preservation with sperm freezing is a great option for men who are at risk of infertility but aren’t yet ready to have a child. Freezing your sperm gives you the chance of fathering a child that’s biologically yours even in the face of fertility issues.
You may consider sperm freezing for a variety of reasons, including:
Although sperm quality is not subject to the same age-related deterioration as in women, recent studies have demonstrated that there is a degree of decline in sperm quality after the age of around 45. Some men may opt to avoid this problem by freezing their sperm while still young.
Once you have provided a semen sample in a private andrology suite at Genea Newcastle’s clinic, this sample will be carefully assessed for sperm quality, quantity, and other parameters to ensure it’s healthy and suitable for freezing. The sample is prepared for freezing by mixing it with a cryoprotectant solution before being divided into vials and frozen in liquid nitrogen.
The frozen sperm is kept in a stable environment in the Genea facility under constant monitoring for as long as you need. There is no maximum time limit for maintaining viable sperm in a frozen state – in fact, pregnancies have been reported using sperm that had been frozen for 20 years.
The freezing process does have some impact on sperm, but modern techniques have minimised these effects. The majority of sperm retain their functionality after thawing.
In general, most men can freeze their sperm. However, it’s important to assess the quality and quantity of the sperm before freezing. Dr Holland will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure that sperm freezing is a suitable option for you.
Sperm freezing is generally considered to be a safe procedure with minimal risks. Some men may experience slight discomfort during semen collection, but overall, the process is well-tolerated. Dr Holland and the team at Genea will provide detailed instructions to ensure a smooth experience.
While there are no absolute guarantees, sperm freezing significantly improves the chances of successful conception when used in assisted reproductive techniques. Achieving a successful pregnancy depends on various factors, including the reproductive health of your female partner.
If you choose not to use your frozen sperm, you can continue to keep it stored until you decide otherwise. You may also choose to donate your sperm or discard it.
Dr Holland’s rooms will be closed on Friday, 15 August 2025
