Sperm freezing - sperm banks

"GENESIS ATHENS" has started freezing and storing sperm samples. Freezing human sperm is a scientifically acknowledged method, which has been applied very successfully in a clinical setting for many years. It aims to the cryopreservation of sperm and its use at any time by a couple that may need it in the future. Moreover, freezing sperm is a very good solution for men who are about to undergo surgery to testis, or before cancer treatment, which transiently or permanently affects sperm quality, spermatogenesis and sexual function in males. Freezing sperm is also appropriate for, men with a low sperm count and declining concentration and mobility, to secure future efforts. Other objective reasons for semen cryopreservation may be occupational (sailors, pilots), business assignments that mean the male partner is absent or even avoidance of psychological stress.

In case of azoospermia, where sperm is collected from the epididymis or testis, there is the possibility of freezing sperm or testicular tissue if permitted by the sperm count. The frozen simple may be preserved in liquid nitrogen for several years.

Before the sperm-freezing procedure, a man undergoes blood tests, which are mandatory: HIV I & II, HbsAg, HCV and VDRL.

The sperm-freezing procedure is very simple. After 2-3 days of abstinence, the male partner collects semen in a sterile collection bag by masturbation. The sample is controlled under the microscope to measure its concentration, motility and morphology. The sample is frozen with special cryoprotectant solutions in special vials and stored in special containers with liquid nitrogen.

The man’s identity must be certified via an ID card or any other public document (passport, driving license). The couple is required to sign a written consent form, which will include all the necessary details.

As a means to preserve fertility in men, sperm preservation is an easy, painless and cost-effective method.

"GENESIS ATHENS" also has an Anonymous Donor Sperm Bank (allogeneic). This serves couples where the male partner has complete azoospermia, which have decided to use donor sperm. Sperm can be volunteered by men who are under 40 years old, physically and mentally healthy, with a healthy family history, sensitised about the act of donation and with above-average sperm parameters.

The World Health Organization requires the donor’s check at regular intervals with specific tests, the freezing of sperm and its preservation for at least six months in the freezer and retesting before fertilization.