Sperm Preservation: A Guide to Proper Freezing Techniques

While semen frozen properly can be stored for many years, the process is not as simple as it may seem. Below are the steps as recommended by the Tyler Medical Clinic.

Things You'll Need

• Cryoprotectant (usually Glycerol or Dimethyl sulfoxide)
• Cryovials (polypropylene)
• Liquid nitrogen vapor
• Liquid nitrogen

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Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Add the cryoprotectant to the semen. The exact amount will depend on the amount of semen being preserved and the type of protectant used. This will prevent any damage to the sperm during the freezing process.

• 2

  Place the semen in cryovials, ensuring a tight seal. The cap and body of the vials used must have a similar rate of expansion to ensure a tight seal no matter what the temperature.

• 3

  Place cryovials in liquid nitrogen vapor. Let cool for three hours.

• 4

  Submerge cryovials in liquid nitrogen.