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Sperm storage Q&A

Q How is it done?

A The donor goes to a private room to produce a semen sample. An agent is added to the semen to reduce damage during freezing, and the sample is placed in several vials and frozen in liquid nitrogen.

Q Can it be collected at home?

A Sperm can be collected at home and placed in a mail-in kit. But it’s better to do it at a laboratory where it can be processed immediately. Unless it’s in a kit, it isn’t usable for storage after about two hours.

Q How long can it be stored?

A If frozen, it can be stored virtually forever.

Q Who generally stores sperm?

A Men who plan to undergo chemotherapy, radiation and vasectomy or are at risk for diseases that might cause sterility, and donors who sell their sperm.

Q How many samples are needed?

A Experts generally advise three sessions, but if only one session is possible, analysis can show if enough viable sperm are present.

Q Is any preparation necessary?

A Lab workers take blood samples to screen for diseases. They also suggest that no sexual activity occur for several days before the sample is collected.

Q How much does it cost?

A Collecting and storing a sample costs around $250. Storing all the samples costs about $300 a year. Blood tests cost between $100 and $200.

Source: California Cryobank