What is semen preparation (sperm washing)?
The process of semen preparation/sperm washing entails separating the healthy sperm that move around from the rest of the semen, leaving only the most efficient sperm to be used in artificial reproduction procedures like IUI and IVF/ICSI.
What is semen preparation (sperm washing)?
The process of semen preparation/sperm washing entails separating the healthy sperm that move around from the rest of the semen, leaving only the most efficient sperm to be used in artificial reproduction procedures like IUI and IVF/ICSI.
OVERVIEW
What is semen preparation (sperm washing)?
Once a semen sample is collected, it is processed (or “washed”) in the lab to separate healthy, motile sperm from other components. This prepared sample is then used for fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF/ICSI. There are various techniques used to prepare sperm, such as, Swim up, Density gradient and capillary based methods.
Step by step
How semen preparation works
A laboratory stage within your IUI or IVF cycle. You provide the sample; everything after that happens in the andrology laboratory.
Sample collection
Provided at the centre on the day, or thawed from a frozen store.
Liquefaction and assessment
The sample is allowed to liquefy, then volume, count and motility are recorded as a baseline.
Washing and separation
Density gradient or swim-up techniques separate motile sperm from seminal fluid, dead cells and debris.
Concentration and final check
The best motile sperm are concentrated into a small volume and re-assessed before release for use.
Insemination or fertilisation
The prepared sample is used for IUI, IVF or ICSI as planned.
FOR WHOM
When semen preparation is used
Semen preparation is recommended for men undergoing fertility treatments where sperm needs to be optimized before use. It’s especially relevant if:
Important to know
Things to keep in mind
When sperm preparation may not be enough
- No sperm present in the ejaculate - surgical retrieval is needed instead
- Extremely low motile counts, where ICSI is more appropriate than IUI
- A sample collected at home and delayed in transit
- Very high DNA fragmentation, where specialised selection may be added
Preparation improves what is already there.
What to expect
- Nothing is required of you beyond providing the sample
- The process takes 45 to 60 minutes while you wait or go about your day
- The prepared count is always lower than the raw count - this is normal and expected
- Frozen samples can be used, and are thawed and prepared the same way
- You are told the prepared parameters before the procedure goes ahead
Alower number after washing is not a bad sign. It is the concentration of what is usable.
Find the right path for your fertility journey
The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. One evaluation consultation is usually enough to know.
- Honest advice on your treatment options, based on your own tests
- Transparent pricing before you commit to a cycle
- 24×7 doctor-supervised medical helpline through your journey