Sperm Freezing

FAQs

• 01 How many sperm samples do I freeze?

  The number of samples required for sperm storage varies depending on your situation. Most people freeze between two and five samples, although some choose to freeze more. Factors such as how soon surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment is scheduled may influence your decision.

  We recommend abstaining from ejaculation for at least two days before providing your first sample, and for about two days between each sample. However, avoid waiting more than five days before the first collection to help maintain sperm quality.

• 02 How long can I store my sperm?

  There is no scientific limit on how long sperm can be kept in sperm storage when frozen correctly. The standard storage period in Australia is 10 years, though this can be extended in certain circumstances. City Fertility will advise you on whether your sperm freezing period can be extended and help with the consent process for banking sperm beyond the standard term.

  It’s important to keep your contact details up to date. You can withdraw consent and request the disposal of your stored sperm in writing at any time.

• 03 Could there be a problem with the quality of sperm?

  Yes, sperm quality can vary from person to person, and may be affected by factors such as age, lifestyle, medical history or underlying health conditions. In some cases, such as before undergoing cancer treatment, sperm quality may already be reduced, which can impact the number of viable specimens.

  If you’re unsure about your fertility or considering sperm freezing, speak to our team to learn more about your options and next steps.

• 04 Are there any problems with the children produced using frozen/thawed sperm?

  Research shows no difference in the rates of abnormalities or birth defects between children conceived using fresh versus frozen sperm. However, there are theoretical concerns that some chemotherapy drugs may have unknown effects on sperm or offspring.

  To reduce potential risks, we recommend banking sperm prior to treatment where possible. Sperm storage before chemotherapy allows for the best chance of preserving fertility using healthy samples. 

• 05 What options are available if I choose not to keep my sperm cryopreserved?

  If you decide not to continue sperm storage, you may choose from the following options:

  • Removal from cryopreservation (thawed and discarded)
  • Donation for scientific training

  Written consent is required for all options. Please get in touch with our fertility coordinators to discuss the next steps.

• 06 How long does sperm last if frozen?

  When stored correctly in liquid nitrogen at -196°C, frozen sperm can remain viable for decades. There is no scientific time limit on how long sperm can be preserved. In fact, pregnancies have been successfully achieved using sperm stored for over 20 years. The quality of the sample at the time of freezing is more important than the length of storage.

• 07 Can frozen sperm be used for IVF?

  Yes, frozen sperm can be used in IVF and ICSI treatments. While there may be a slight reduction in motility compared to fresh samples, fertilisation and pregnancy rates remain comparable when handled by experienced fertility clinics.

• 08 Is it harder to get pregnant with frozen sperm?

  There is no significant difference in success rates between fresh and frozen sperm in most cases. For example, ICSI using frozen sperm has a fertilisation rate of around 70–80%.

• 09 What is the best frozen sperm for pregnancy?

  Clinically screened, high-quality sperm with strong motility and morphology are considered best for pregnancy outcomes, whether fresh or frozen. Your fertility specialist will assess sample suitability before use.

• 10 How much does it cost to freeze sperm?

  The sperm freezing cost at City Fertility is $660 and includes six months of sperm preservation. Ongoing storage fees and optional services may apply. Contact us for a personalised quote.

• 11 Can sperm be stored at home?

  No, sperm must be frozen and stored under strict clinical conditions to remain viable. At-home storage is not safe or effective. If you’re considering sperm freezing, please contact us to learn more about proper storage options.

• 12 What happens if I want to thaw and use the samples?

  There are several treatment options available to help you and your partner achieve pregnancy. The recommended approach will depend on the number of samples stored and the quality of the sperm before and after freezing. Your partner may also need to complete some routine fertility investigations as part of the process.

  Please inform your City Fertility specialist if you wish to use your frozen sperm sample. Your embryologist will assess the sample and share the post-thaw results with your specialist to determine the most appropriate next steps. If the sperm quality is suitable after thawing, it may be used in Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI). If the sample is affected by illness, treatment, or lower motility, your specialist may recommend In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). ICSI is a specialised form of IVF where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg.