The freezing of sperm cells, also known as cryopreservation, is an established method of preserving fertility in men. There are also numerous reasons for men to consider cryopreservation. These include, in particular, medical situations where fertility is at risk, such as before chemotherapy, radiotherapy or operations on the testicles. The decision to undergo cryopreservation can also be made in the context of family planning, for example if a vasectomy is planned or if the desire to have children at a later date is to be fulfilled. Trans men who are planning gender reassignment treatment can also benefit from this option to enable their biological paternity at a later date.
A sperm sample is first required for the cryopreservation of sperm cells. This is obtained under hygienic conditions in our practice. In the laboratory, the sample is carefully examined for motility, number and quality of the sperm. The sperm cells are then gradually frozen in liquid nitrogen at around -196 degrees Celsius. At these extremely low temperatures, the sperm can be stored for many years without their fertilization ability being significantly impaired. At the desired time, the material can be thawed and used in assisted reproduction. In addition to the freezing of ejaculate, there is another option: the cryopreservation of testicular tissue. This method is used if no sperm can be detected in the ejaculate or if it cannot be obtained naturally, for example in prepubertal boys prior to treatment that damages germ cells. In this case, testicular tissue is removed under anesthesia, examined immediately in the laboratory for the presence of sperm and then frozen. This procedure is more complex, but opens up new prospects for starting a family at a later date, particularly in the case of severe disease progression or genetic causes.
Cryopreservation offers men an important option for preserving their fertility even under challenging circumstances. fertisuisse accompanies this process with professional expertise, medical precision and a high degree of discretion. If you would like to find out more about the cryopreservation of sperm or testicular tissue, we cordially invite you to a personal consultation. Together we will clarify your individual options, answer your questions and discuss the next steps - competently, sensitively and in line with the latest developments in reproductive medicine.