Your Questions Answered

The semen sample is mixed with a liquid known as cryoprotectant and stored in small containers in liquid nitrogen. Typically we store between 2 and 8 ampoules from each semen sample, however each ejaculate is different and this number may vary. The current permitted storage period is ten years. However, this can be extended to age 55 in certain circumstances.

How many semen samples will be required?

This depends upon the volume of the ejaculate and the number of sperm present. However, we like to store about four separate samples if this is possible.

Where and when should the semen sample be produced?

You will be asked to produce the semen sample by masturbation within a private room at Bridge. If this is not possible, please discuss alternative arrangements with our Cryobank scientists. You may make appointments from 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday and also on Saturday mornings from 9am - 12pm. Please note that there must be at least 3 days sexual abstinence before each visit.

Why is a consultation with a doctor recommended?

A Bridge specialist will discuss various aspects of sperm storage with you, including the restrictions placed on us by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act of 1990. Your written consent is required in order for sperm to be stored. The consent form also includes terms of storage, such as duration of storage of the sperm and also what you would wish to have done with the sperm in the event of your death. You will be informed that you can change your consent at any stage. The doctor will then explain what forms of fertility treatment are possible using frozen sperm.

Will I need counselling?

An independent counsellor is available to talk to you before, during or after sperm storage, if you wish to do so. An appointment can be arranged through the receptionist at Bridge. You are welcome to bring your partner or a parent with you to any of the appointments.

How would a partner of mine be treated using stored frozen sperm?

There are many types of treatment available. The choice of treatment option will depend on the quality of the sperm stored, the number of samples available and your partner's fertility. These issues need to be discussed in detail prior to commencing treatment. If the quality of the stored sperm is good then conception may occur following artificial insemination. However, if the sperm quality is very poor, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or even intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be required. Further information sheets are available covering these treatment options.

Is there any guarantee that I can have a child in the future using the stored sperm?

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee. However, we undertake to freeze any viable sperm within the ejaculates provided for storage. The stored sperm should offer the chance of one or more treatment cycles in the future.

If I do not use my sperm, what happens to it?

Provided your wishes have been stated in writing on the consent form, they will be carried out. If the samples are to be disposed of, they will be thawed and allowed to perish.

You may wish to give consent for your samples to be used after your death for treatment attempts to achieve posthumous conception. If this is the case, you may also wish to have your particulars included in the register of births as the father of any resulting child. This will not confer any inheritance or legal rights.

Contact Us

Tel: +44 (020) 7403 1449
Email: enquiries@bridge-malefertility.com

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