Male Fertility Services – All You Need to Know
If you are interested in a semen analysis or sperm preservation, our team is here to support you. We’ll answer your questions, explain each step of the process, and help you get started in a comfortable, confidential setting.
Semen Analysis
Semen analyses are performed to assess semen parameters as an indicator of male fertility. The analysis includes assessment of the numbers of sperm, the percentage of moving sperm and the overall structure of the sperm seen. A report is formed which includes a summary and the WHO criteria for ‘normal semen parameters’ for comparison.
Please note that prior to your semen analysis appointments it is recommended that you have 2-5 days of abstinence from ejaculation.
We offer patients the option of either producing their sample off site (providing certain criteria are met) or at our clinic in Hove. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this further.
View our current price list. To arrange an appointment, contact our team.
Semen Cryopreservation
Semen cryopreservation is available to patients looking for either short- or long-term storage options. To get started, read through the information on this page and give us a call on 01273 620165 or email [email protected]
The first step
The first step would be to book in for an initial semen analysis appointment. This is to assess the quality of the sample and suitability for future freezing, the sample produced in this appointment will not be frozen. We will provide you with the semen analysis results and advise you on the next steps.
Screening requirements
You will be required to have screening prior to your first freeze appointment to ensure that the samples are stored safely and in line with current legislation. All screening must be dated within 3 months of your first freeze. Screening is charged separately if performed at Sussex Sperm Bank.
HFEA requirements
You are required to complete consent forms prior to freezing any semen samples. Our governing body, the HFEA, has consent forms that allow you to store samples for up to 55 years. Please be aware that if you intend to store for the maximum storage period, you must update your consent forms every 10 years to ensure that we can continue to store your samples. If at any point your circumstances change, the consent forms will need to be updated to reflect this. This includes any changes to (but not limited to) your personal details, details of your partner for intended treatment (if applicable) or any conditions you have placed on the use of your samples.
If you have samples in storage and no longer wish to keep them, a withdrawal consent form must be completed. You can then choose for the samples to be either destroyed, donated or used for training purposes.
Freezing process
Once screening and consent forms are in place, you can begin the freezing process. The number of freeze appointments will depend on your individual needs and can be discussed following your initial semen analysis. Each ejaculate will be analysed, frozen and then stored securely. Semen analysis reports for each sample will be available upon request. We recommend 2-5 days abstinence for each appointment. If you are freezing consecutively over a shorter timeframe, we recommend 48 hours between appointments. All samples for freezing must be produced on-site.
Storage periods
You may wish to freeze samples to preserve your fertility and store these long-term for use in the future. This option is for patients who are having treatment or procedures that may negatively impact their fertility. The storage period you choose allows you to store your samples for up to 55 years, in line with HFEA legislation.
You may wish to freeze samples as a short-term solution for use in your fertility treatment at another centre. This option is for patients that may be required to freeze samples prior to treatment as a back-up or looking for reassurance that samples are in storage should they need them.
Transport of samples
The semen samples you have in storage can be transported to other HFEA-licensed centres or to treatment centres abroad (providing the centre accepts samples frozen under UK legislation and we can form an agreement). Please contact us to discuss your individual needs further to confirm if this is possible.
Emergency cryopreservation
In some cases, such as for those patients who require emergency surgeries, we may be able to offer emergency cryopreservation. This means that samples are frozen in quick succession and can be stored whilst we are waiting for any screening results. Please contact us if you wish to discuss this further as this is dependent on the specific circumstances.
View our current price list. To arrange an appointment, contact our team.
DNA Fragmentation
Sussex Sperm Bank (SxSB) works in partnership with Examen to offer DNA fragmentation testing. A semen sample is produced at SxSB, which is then safely shipped to Examen for testing.
Testing levels of DNA damage (or fragmentation) when trying to conceive can indicate chances of successful fertilization and healthy pregnancies. DNA fragmentation testing can be used in line with semen analysis to give a clearer picture of overall sperm health.
There are two types of DNA damage that can be assessed:
- Single stranded breaks: More common and typically less harmful, often these can be improved with lifestyle factors.
- Double stranded breaks: Less common and more challenging to improve.
Examen offer the following testing:
Exact
Examines single and double stranded DNA damage for a broad view of DNA integrity. This is recommended for patients at the beginning of their journey of trying to conceive or after trying for more than a year.
Extend
Examines double-stranded DNA damage, but more specific and in depth. This is recommended for patients who have suffered miscarriage or as part of tailoring fertility treatment options.
Extensiv
Includes both the Exact and Extend testing. This is recommended for patients that would like the most in depth investigation.
Results are provided approximately 2-3 weeks following your appointment. Please contact us if you have any further questions or wish to book in.
View our current price list. To arrange an appointment, contact our team.
Phlebotomy Services
SxSB offers professional phlebotomy services to support a wide range of blood testing needs. From infectious disease screening to comprehensive hormone profiling, our services are available to both male and female patients.
We can accommodate a variety of testing requirements tailored to your individual needs. Please contact us to discuss the tests you require and how we can assist you.
Pricing is available upon request and may vary depending on the specific tests required.
Speak to our team
To discuss your needs or book an appointment, call 01273 620165 or email [email protected].
View our current price list. To arrange an appointment, contact our team.