Sperm cryopreservation

Sperm freezing (cryopreservation) also known as “sperm banking” is offered to all post pubertal men who are diagnosed with testicular cancer prior to initiating treatment as radiation, with or without chemotherapy, can lead to arrest of sperm production. Sperm freezing is done by freezing several sperm samples in liquid nitrogen at sub-zero temperatures (typically -196°) where it can then be safely stored for several years. When the decision for conception is made, the frozen sperm can be thawed and used in combination with in vitro fertilization and can result in 40-60% pregnancy rate.