Cryopreservation of sperm

Ejaculate cryopreservation is performed at our clinic for the following patients:

• Before chemotherapy or radiotherapy of the testicles
• Patients without cancer who require cell-damaging treatment
• If an increasing deterioration in sperm quality is to be expected due to an illness
• Before a ligation of the vas deferens (vasectomy)
• In azoospermia (no sperm in the ejaculate), if sperm can be retrieved from the testicles or epididymis(TESE, micro-TESE, MESA)

If a therapy that damages germ cells (gametes) is planned (e.g. radio/chemotherapy), the sperm can be stored indefinitely according to Swiss law, otherwise for five years.

In order for cryopreservation to be carried out optimally, ejaculation must take place on site. We will allocate you a room exclusively for this purpose. You should not ejaculate for two to five days before the examination.

Security

Our cryotanks are equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems and a competent team is available around the clock to deal with any emergencies. This means that your valuable ejaculate is optimally protected at all times. Being part of a proven, long-standing and solid organization like the USZ ensures that your sperm will be available when you need it.

Organization and costs

If sperm are frozen at your request, there is no charge of CHF 200 for freezing (cryopreservation) and an annual storage fee of CHF 400. If the sperm are cryopreserved due to cancer before testicular-damaging treatment, the health insurance company usually covers the costs.