When is Sperm Freezing (Cryopreservation) Recommended?
Sperm freezing may be recommended in the following situations:
- When the male partner cannot be present on the day of insemination or IVF
- Before chemotherapy, radiation, or testicular surgery
- If there is a risk of being unable to produce a semen sample when needed
- When sperm count is very low or fluctuating
- In cases of azoospermia, where sperm is obtained surgically
- Prior to vasectomy or gender-affirming treatments
- In genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, to preserve sperm early in life
- When traveling or living abroad during fertility treatment
Frozen sperm can later be used for IUI or IVF/ICSI, depending on sperm quality and your treatment plan.
Sperm Freezing Process Overview
To plan semen cryopreservation (sperm freezing), please contact us to set an appointment in advance. Once at Reproart, you will submit a semen sample which will be examined and frozen immediately. A special cryoprotectant is added to semen, all of which is frozen at -196°C. There is no limit on how long frozen semen can be stored and remain useful for reproductive procedures.
The process is:
Non-Invasive
Quick and Secure
Usually completed within a day
See the Steps →
1. Consultation & Testing
You’ll meet with a Reproductive Endocrinologist or Andrologist. Blood tests may be done to screen for infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis.
2. Semen Collection
You’ll provide a sample via masturbation in a private room at Reproart. When sperm is not present in the ejaculate, it may be collected through surgical retrieval.
3. Sample Analysis
Semen analysis (spermogram) is performed to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology. DNA fragmentation testing is done if needed.
4. Freezing
Cryoprotectant is added to the sample, which is then frozen in liquid nitrogen and securely stored in our Andrology Lab.
5. Storage
There is no limit on how long frozen semen can be stored and remain useful for reproductive procedures.
International Patients: How It Works
If you are planning fertility treatment and live outside of Georgia, you may choose to freeze and store your sperm in advance. Testing and freezing can be arranged during a short 1–2 day visit. Your frozen sperm will be securely stored and used later as part of your treatment program.
Contact Personal Manager
Make an appointment or request more information. Leave your contact details and our team will get in touch with you!
What to Expect
A portion of motile sperm generally survives the thawing process and is sufficient for fertilization — especially when assisted reproductive techniques such as ICSI are used. A single semen sample can often be divided into multiple vials, allowing for use across several treatment cycles depending on the initial quality.
When stored in liquid nitrogen under proper conditions, frozen sperm remains viable for many years without significant decline in effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We know that fertility care often brings up many questions — and that every journey is different. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask.
Can one sperm sample be used multiple times?
Yes. If frozen, a single sperm sample can often be divided into multiple vials and used for more than one fertility treatment cycle, depending on the quantity and quality of the sperm.
What happens if I need surgical retrieval?
Sperm can be retrieved through procedures like TESE or micro-TESE and frozen the same day.
Do I need to prepare before providing a sperm sample?
Yes. You should abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before your appointment to help ensure the best possible sample quality. Avoid alcohol, overheating (like saunas or hot tubs), if possible. Please consult with an us before sample collection.
