Vial Freezing Process
Once a donor completes a deposit, our laboratories take the next important steps in preparing the specimen for future use.
- The sample is evaluated for count and motility.
- A determination is made about whether to ICI or IUI process the specimen.
- ICI vials: Cryopreservative is added, and the specimen is transferred into vials that are stored in liquid nitrogen.
- IUI vials: The specimen is processed through density gradient media then washed once. Cryopreservative is added, and the specimen is transferred into vials that are stored in liquid nitrogen.
- IVF vials: The specimen is processed in the same manner as IUI vials (washed through a density gradient). Relative to an IUI vial, IVF vials contain a smaller volume of sample, and therefore a proportionally smaller number of motile sperm, making them most suitable for IVF/ICSI procedures.
- All specimens remain in quarantine for a minimum of six months and will only be released upon receipt of negative infectious disease results obtained at the end of that period.
- Vials manufactured at branch locations are shipped to Los Angeles for quarantine and long-term storage.
IVF Vials
We now offer a new vial type to accommodate those who are doing IVF or ICSI and are looking for a lower priced vial option. IVF Vials are most suitable for IVF or ICSI procedures. They contain a smaller quantity of the same high quality sperm found in our IUI Premium Vials. At such small volumes, the number of motile sperm can vary significantly. Providing IVF vials in pairs helps to ensure you have an adequate number of sperm needed for IVF on the day of your procedure.
- IVF Vials are only sold in pairs
- IVF Vials must be shipped in pairs for each procedure
- You can order any type of vial that we offer for your IVF or ICSI procedure. Our IUI Premium Vials and ICI Premium Vials contain more sperm than is necessary for IVF or ICSI, but they are suitable to use.