Sperm Freezing

FERTILITY PRESERVATION

What is Sperm Cryopreservation?

Sperm cryopreservation, also known as Sperm freezing, is a process where sperm cells are preserved for future use. This technique is highly beneficial for men who wish to store their sperm due to medical reasons, such as upcoming cancer treatments that may affect fertility, or simply for future family planning.

 

The process involves collecting a sperm sample, which is then mixed with a cryoprotectant to protect the cells during the freezing process. The sample is gradually cooled and finally stored in liquid nitrogen at temperatures of around -196°C (-321°F). Sperm freezing offers a valuable solution for preserving fertility, providing men with the flexibility to potentially father children at a later date.

MEET YOUR REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGIST

Dr. Chauhan

Dr. Subodh Chauhan, Founder and CEO of Gulf Coast Andrology, is Board Certified in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Endocrinology. A Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, he has trained in India, the UK, and the USA.

Known for his personalized care, Dr. Chauhan performs semen analysis and IUI for his patients and is highly regarded for his compassionate and ethical approach.

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A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Sperm Cryopreservation

1. Initial Consultation 

The process begins with a consultation where the individual’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and reproductive goals are discussed. This helps Dr. Chauhan assess the suitability and provide tailored advice.

2. Sperm Collection

The most common method of sperm collection involves masturbation. In situations where this is not possible, medical procedures such as testicular sperm extraction (TESE) may be employed.

3. Sample Analysis & Preparation 

Once collected, the sperm sample is analyzed to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology. A cryoprotectant, a special solution that prevents ice crystal formation, is then mixed with the sample to protect the sperm during freezing.

4. Freezing

The sperm sample is gradually cooled using a programmable freezer to avoid formation of large ice crystals which can damage the sperm cells. Once the sample reaches a critical low temperature, it is transferred to liquid nitrogen tanks where it is stored at approximately -196°C (-321°F).

5. Storage

Samples can be stored indefinitely in liquid nitrogen. Regular monitoring and sample management ensure the continued viability of the sperm during the storage period.

6. Thawing & Use

When ready to use, the sperm samples are carefully thawed in a controlled environment to ensure the highest possible recovery of viable sperm cells. After thawing, the sperm can be used in fertility treatments such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

 

The sperm freezing process offers a reliable and effective way for men to preserve their fertility, providing peace of mind and flexibility for future family planning.

PRESERVING FERTILITY

Who Should Consider Sperm Freezing?

Sperm freezing is a practical option for many men facing a range of life circumstances.

 

  • Men undergoing medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation for cancer, that may impair fertility should strongly consider sperm freezing to preserve their ability to father children in the future.
  • Men in high-risk professions, such as military personnel, firefighters, or athletes, may choose to freeze their sperm as a precautionary measure against potential injuries or exposure to harmful substances.
  • Men who wish to delay fatherhood for personal or professional reasons can benefit from sperm freezing, providing them with the flexibility to start a family later in life.
  • Individuals undergoing gender transition may opt to freeze sperm before beginning hormone replacement therapy, ensuring they retain the option for biological parenthood.

REAL PATIENTS, REAL SUCCESS

Patient Testimonials

Everyone going through infertility knows how important it is to find a doctor and team to help you navigate this journey. After going to another fertility group practice in the city and realizing that I was sometimes more of a number than a patient to them, I’m so happy to have found Dr. Chauhan. His office made me feel heard and treated me like an individual. I was always cared for and all my questions answered at a moments notice. He explains everything in detail and I felt very comfortable with him from the start. It is also easy to communicate with this staff which was a challenge for me with the other practice I had started seeing before them. Dr. Chauhan did my egg retrieval and we were very fortunate to immediately get pregnant naturally soon after. Although this is the very best outcome I could hope for, I wish he could be my OB during my whole pregnancy. He really is the best!!
Ximena Camacho⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Chauhan and his staff were always so nice and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them enough. He was one of the only doctors that didn’t shame me for my weight but instead provided words of encouragement. I’m happy to report that thanks to the doctor and his wonderful nurses my husband and I were able to conceive after one IUI cycle. This is the doctor you need to see! I can’t thank these people enough for changing our lives.
Maritza Zuniga⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Chauhan is amazing and I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a fertility doctor. He helped us grow our family and welcome 2 wonderful sons. We could not have done it without him. He takes the time to listen and really gets to know you. He makes himself available to his patients and is always available to answer your questions. He is at every appt and performing every procedure. We are so incredibly thankful for him.
Kimberley Hollas⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Chauhan was our fertility doctor for both of our children via gestational carrier/surrogacy. He helped us create healthy embryos with our egg donor and had a successful pregnancy both times with a single embryo transfer!!! We love our conversations and look forward to our consults throughout our journey. Definitely recommend him to any LGBTQ+ family looking to create embryos, IVF, and gestational carrier/surrogacy! We will forever be thankful to Dr. Chauhan for all that he has done for our growing family.
Paul Lovero⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Subodh Chauhan helped us with our 2 daughters and we cannot thank him enough. He is very knowledgeable, but what sets him apart is his compassion. He takes the time to answer every question and will make sure you are comfortable with every decision. He is truly an angel. We cannot recommend him enough. He and his staff will make you feel welcome and prioritized. If you need an IFV/fertility doctor and are reading this review, you have to call Dr. Chauhan.
Billy Ashby⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Chauhan is a very kind Doctor that has been practicing for years. I followed him from his previous franchised corporate clinic to his new private practice where his services became much more affordable. I have been through ivf a few times before but previous clinics just followed protocol and did not listen to me. Dr. Chauhan is apart of every aspect of his practice guides his nurses and staff and helps them.
Mach Duck⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We are very glad that we found such a great doctor . Premises was so positive , nurses took very good care . Doctor was so helpful in guiding the next steps for our pregnancy journey .
Bhandar Monica⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr Chauhan is a very caring doctor I’ve encountered. You can really tell whan you first encounter him that he got you! And he has the experience to prove that. If I could give 10 stars or more, I will. Highly recommended💯
Marjun Aplaca⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr chauhan is a great doctor one of the best doctor in Houston I highly recommend him to everyone who is dealing with fertility issues. Without him I wouldn't have been able to start my family. I really want to thank Dr. Chauhan for making me and my husband's dream finally comes true 😀
Maherin Modi⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been a client of Dr. Chauhan's for six years now. Since the beginning of our time together, he has been honest and caring about my husband's and my infertility journey. We went through IVF and obtained three embryos. I have had healthy births from two of the embryos and now we are on round three, and I am pregnant. We are very excited that we went to Dr. Chauhan. I highly recommend his treatment and care to anyone going through an infertility journey.
Shamika Kelley⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

SPERM CRYOPRESERVATION

FAQs

Sperm freezing, also known as sperm cryopreservation, is the process of preserving sperm cells at extremely low temperatures for future use. This is done using liquid nitrogen to store the sperm at -196°C (-321°F).

Sperm freezing is recommended for men who are about to undergo medical treatments that could impair their fertility, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It’s also a good option for men who plan to delay fatherhood for personal or professional reasons.

 

No, the sperm freezing process itself is not painful. Sperm is typically collected through masturbation, which is painless. If medical procedures like testicular sperm extraction (TESE) are required, local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.

 

Sperm can be stored indefinitely in liquid nitrogen without compromising its quality. There have been successful pregnancies using sperm that was frozen for over 20 years.

A cryoprotectant is a special solution mixed with the sperm sample to prevent ice crystal formation during the freezing process. This solution helps protect the sperm cells from damage.

Before freezing, the sperm sample is analyzed for sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). This assessment helps determine the quality of the sperm and its suitability for future fertility treatments.

 

Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, stress, and substance use can affect sperm quality. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is advisable to ensure the best possible quality of sperm before freezing.

 

When you’re ready to use your frozen sperm, it is carefully thawed in a controlled environment. The thawed sperm can then be used for fertility treatments such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

While sperm freezing and thawing are considered safe, there is a small risk of losing some sperm cells during the process. However, advancements in cryopreservation techniques have significantly minimized these risks.

 

GULF COAST ANDROLOGY

Insurance

At Gulf Coast Andrology, we understand the financial stress that infertility treatments can impose. We are committed to making advanced fertility care accessible to as many patients as possible. That's why we are pleased to announce that we accept most insurance plans.

Our knowledgeable staff will work closely with you to help navigate your insurance benefits and ensure you receive the maximum coverage possible for your treatment. We encourage you to contact our office for specific details about your insurance plan and the extent of your coverage.

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START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

Book a Consultation

To schedule an appointment, simply contact our office by phone or email. Our friendly staff will assist you in finding a convenient time for your visit and answer any preliminary questions you may have. We also offer virtual consultations for patients who prefer or require a remote appointment.

 

Whether beginning your fertility journey or exploring new treatments, Gulf Coast Andrology is here to support you every step of the way.

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Patient Portal

 

Location

7900 Fannin St. Suite 4000 Houston, TX 77054

 

Get In Touch

Call (713) 405-1370

Fax (713) 404-1371

referral@gulfcoastandrology.com

 

Office Hours

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm