Recent advances in the fields of oncology, urology and reproductive biology are providing men facing possible
sterilization with new options regarding their reproductive capabilities. These male patients may want to consider
the option of semen storage prior to proceeding with any medical procedure that may result in the loss of fertility
potential.
Semen Storage Should Be Considered:
Prior to cancer-related therapies:
Advances in the treatment of lymphomas, testicular and other types of cancer have improved the prognosis
for many cancer patients. However, these same therapies (surgery, chemotherapy and radiation), frequently
render male patients infertile. Semen cryopreservation prior to the initiation of treatment, offers the
possibility of retaining reproductive capabilities for male patients.
Prior to testicular or prostate surgery:
Sterility may occur following testicular surgery or prostatectomy. The option to store semen prior to surgery
may preserve a man's reproductive capability.
Prior to a vasectomy:
The option to store semen prior to a vasectomy can preserve fertility potential and prevent the need for
reversal surgeries in the event that circumstances change during a man's lifetime.
Prior to an IVF, GIFT, or ZIFT procedure:
By storing semen prior to assisted reproductive procedures, the availability of semen at the critical time of
the procedure is ensured.
For high risk occupational exposures:
Recent studies have shown that on-the-job exposure to hazardous materials can have profound health
consequences, including male infertility. According to one of the Cryobank's medical directors, Cappy M.
Rothman, MD, high risk occupational expo-sures include but are not limited to:
- men who are exposed to environmental toxins such as chemicals, herbicides, pesticides, lead,
radiation, and an increasing list of agents used in everyday life.
- professional athletes who risk testicular injury.
- men in the military.
In times of absenteeism by the husband:
When the husband's schedule does not permit his availability, storing semen allows a wife to continue with
the couple's reproductive plans.
For oligospermia patients:
If oligospermia (low sperm count) has been diagnosed, pooling several previously banked semen specimens
to be used for one insemination may increase the chance of pregnancy.
