Limitations and Pitfalls of Sperm Cryopreservation

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• 519.650.0011

• info_at_onefertilitykw.com

• Limitations and Pitfalls of Sperm Cryopreservation

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• Introduction

• Sperm cryopreservation involves freezing sperm at
  extremely low temperatures, typically -196C
  (-321F), in liquid nitrogen.
• This process aims to preserve sperm viability and
  function for future use in ART procedures like
  IVF and ICSI.
• Cryopreservation is commonly used for various
  reasons, including cancer treatment, genetic
  conditions, delayed parenthood, and sperm
  donation.

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• Sperm Damage

• The freezing and thawing process can damage
  sperm, impacting
• Motility ability to move and fertilize an egg.
• Morphology shape and structure.
• DNA integrity potential for genetic
  abnormalities.
• The extent of damage varies depending on
  individual sperm quality, freezing
  techniques, and storage duration.
• Studies show a decrease in motile and
  morphologically normal sperm after
  cryopreservation.

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• Reduced Success Rates

• Pregnancy rates achieved with cryopreserved sperm
  are generally lower compared to fresh sperm in
  ART procedures.
• This is attributed to factors like impaired sperm
  function, selection bias during freezing, and
  individual patient characteristics.
• Lower success rates can be emotionally
  challenging, and setting realistic expectations
  is crucial.
• Ongoing research strives to improve
  cryopreservation methods and optimize their use
  in ART.

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• Cost and Accessibility

• Cryopreservation can be expensive, including
  initial freezing, storage fees, and potential ART
  procedures.
• This financial burden can be a significant
  barrier for individuals with limited resources.
• Access to cryopreservation facilities varies,
  creating disparities in equity for fertility
  care.
• Potentially more affordable, fertility
  preservation options exist for specific
  situations.

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• Unrealistic Expectations

• Cryopreservation does not guarantee future
  fertility or successful conception.
• Fertility is influenced by multiple factors
  beyond sperm quality, including female partner's
  health, age, and other conditions.
• Overreliance on cryopreservation without
  considering other aspects of fertility can lead
  to disappointment.
• Comprehensive fertility evaluation is crucial for
  informed decision-making.

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• Ethical Considerations

• Long-term storage Ethical concerns arise
  regarding the indefinite storage of sperm and
  potential future uses.
• Posthumous use Should sperm be used for
  conception after the biological father's
  death? Legal and emotional complexities exist.
• Donor anonymity Ethical questions surround
  anonymity rights of sperm donors and potential
  consequences for offspring.
• Genetic risks Cryopreservation might
  unintentionally preserve and transmit genetic
  abnormalities.

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• Psychological Impact

• Cryopreservation can cause anxiety about
  success, fear of failure, and emotional
  investment in the outcome.
• The psychological burden can be
  significant, particularly with repeated failed
  attempts or unexpected challenges.
• Emotional support before, during, and after the
  process is crucial for well-being and informed
  decision-making.
• Seeking professional counselling can help manage
  stress and navigate the emotional aspects of
  fertility preservation.

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• Contact us

• ONE Fertility Kitchener Waterloo
• 4271 King St East, Suite 200Kitchener, ON N2P 2X7

• Timing
• Monday-Friday 7am-3pmSaturday-Sunday 8am-12pm

• 519.650.0011

• info_at_onefertilitykw.com

• https//www.onefertilitykitchenerwaterloo.com/

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