The practice, also known as sperm cryopreservation, is the process of freezing sperm cells taken from men almost indefinitely. The longest successful freezing period known today is 22 years. Considering the way technology has taken in the last 30 years, it can be considered for sure that this period will be longer than human life.

Why is sperm freezing done?

Sperm freezing is a very important procedure, especially in men undergoing cancer treatment, before sperm quality deteriorates. After serious treatments such as cancer, deterioration of sperm cells and permanent damage may occur. This both causes male infertility and makes it impossible to have a healthy baby. In order not to take such a risk, sperm freezing can be performed.

In some men, the absence of sperm cells in the semen, called azoospermia, can be seen. In this case, sperm cells are removed by surgical methods. Since the cells that have been taken have the possibility of not being able to be taken again, it is recommended to keep them just in case. Storage is also done by freezing. Sperm freezing is also recommended for men who want to have a vasectomy. Although vasectomy is an operation that is known to be reversible, there are always risks. In order to minimize these risks, sperm freezing can be performed before vasectomy.

Does Sperm Freezing Have an Effect on the Baby?

Sperm freezing is a practice that has been preferred for many years. Sperm, which remain frozen for many years, can perform their functions as long as they are stored under the right conditions. Unlike normal pregnancies, there are no complications in pregnancies provided with frozen sperm. Complications such as miscarriage, premature birth or stillbirth depend on the egg in which the sperm is fertilized and the structure of the uterus where the embryo attaches.

It is not possible for hereditary diseases to come to the forefront with the freezing process. If the sperms are taken correctly and stored with nitrogen at -196 degrees, they do not undergo any deterioration. If the thawing protocol of frozen sperm is applied according to the standards, the obtained sperm cells preserve their functionality.