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| Sperm Preparation & Artificial Insemination |
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Sperm Preparation is a rapidly advancing science used to improve sperm quality. Several preparation techniques are available to address different sperm quality problems. Once a diagnostic analysis is complete the appropriate sperm preparation will be used to enhance the sperms ability to achieve a pregnancy with artificial insemination. |
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| Sperm Freezing (Cryopreservation) |
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While the idea of freezing human male gametes, or sperm, has been experimented with since the late 1700s, it was not until 50 years ago that we were able to freeze sperm in such a way that it could be thawed and it could fertilize and egg. In the past several decades the technology of cryopreservation, or maintaining life in a frozen state, has advanced considerably. With the use of modern techniques, cryopreservation of sperm to preserve an individual’s ability to reproduce has become successful, safe, and widely available. The absolute longevity of cryopreserved semen samples has yet to be determined. However, it was not until the 1950s that the methods for cryopreserving human sperm were refined. In 1953 the first human birth from frozen semen occurred. Since then ongoing research has aided in the development of more sophisticated procedures and techniques for freezing and storing human sperm. Subsequently in 1998, the first birth was achieved using sperm frozen for 20 years. Sperm are frozen by adding a "cryoprotectant" solution to the sample, mixed gently in a small plastic cryovial and then placed in liquid nitrogen vapors until frozen. |
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| Consultation Services |
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Douglas T. Carrell Ph.D. is a male fertility specialist who has researched Andrology for more than 20 years. |
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| Donor Sperm – Obtaining, Storage & Insemination |
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Artificial insemination using donor sperm has been regularly performed for several decades. Thousands of couples that otherwise would not have had a chance to obtain a pregnancy have conceived using artificial insemination with cryopreserved donor sperm. The decision to use donor sperm is an extremely personal decision, which should be made following careful consideration and discussion. |
Physicians
