Semen Collection
The individual provides a semen sample through ejaculation into a sterile container, either at home or in a lab setting.
Surgical sperm extraction may be performed for those unable to ejaculate or with no sperm in their semen.
Abstaining from ejaculation for 2-5 days before collection ensures optimal sperm count and motility.
The sample is analyzed for key factors such as sperm count, motility, morphology, and pH levels.
Freezing Process
Cryoprotectant Application: A protective solution is added to the sample to prevent cellular damage during freezing.
Slow Freezing: The sample is gradually cooled over 2-4 hours before immersion in liquid nitrogen at -196°C.
Vitrification: A flash-freezing method that rapidly cools the sperm, ensuring minimal ice crystal formation.
Thawing Process
Frozen sperm is thawed carefully at 37°C to restore biological activity.
The sample is washed in a culture medium and centrifuged to separate it from the cryoprotectant, preparing it for IUI or IVF.
