What is sperm banking?
Sperm banking is the preservation (or saving) of sperm by freezing so they may be used subsequently for artificial insemination or other assisted reproduction technique.
Why do I need sperm storage?
Some chemotherapy drugs will have no effect on your fertility, but others may reduce the number of sperm you produce or their ability to reach and fertilize the female egg during sexual intercourse. The effect may be temporary but in some cases may result in infertility. Sometimes a sperm sample is taken to check fertility prior to chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. Successful sperm preservation gives you a possibility of fathering a child at a later date using your pre treatment stored sperm.
The chemotherapy drugs do not have a permanent effect on your sexual performance or your ability to enjoy sex. You will still be able to get an erection and orgasm as you did before you started treatment.
You may find that during your treatment you have no sex drive at all, or it has been reduced due to the treatment. This is common and should return to normal after your treatment has finished.
If you have not completed your family before you are offered chemotherapy you may be able to store some sperm for later use. Not all men's sperm will freeze well and there is no way of predicting whose sperm will survive the freezing and thawing process. This is particularly relevant when the man has been unwell as illness can adversely affect sperm quality. However the quality of sperm will not deteriorate with time once it is frozen. The number of years sperm can be frozen for depends on your age at the time of storage.
Are there any tests required before sperm can be stored?
Yes "“ before the storage can go ahead you will be asked for some blood tests. These can be done at the hospital or by your GP. The tests will include HIV, Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B. It is now policy for every patient wishing to store sperm to be screened for these viruses. The results are needed to ensure the safety of stored samples.
Arranging Sperm Storage
If you decide you would like to have sperm stored please speak to the Urology Nurse Specialist.
