Male Patient Journey

If not already determined by the referring Oncology Unit, viral status HIV I – II antibody Hepatitis B surface antigen & core antibody, Hepatitis C antibody, Cytomegalovirus antibody (CMV IgG) and other viral agents deemed necessary will be determined, these tests have to be undertaken within 90 days of the date of sample collection.

Semen samples are produced in our private sampling rooms at SIMS IVF.

Wherever possible, it is preferable to collect a semen sample for freezing 3-5 days after your last ejaculation. This will allow for optimal quality of the sample and may reduce the need for further repeats.

Often the pressure to commence treatment dictates the number of specimens you may provide. One sample is often enough, but, when necessary, we can freeze up to three specimens. However, the laboratory will ensure they recommend if a second sample is deemed necessary. It is recommended to allow two days between samples to allow time for sperm production, but we appreciate that this may not always be possible.

Semen is frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen and stored at a temperature of minus 196˚C.  The mixture of liquid nitrogen and glycerol enables semen to be frozen and stored for many years.

Frozen semen will be stored in liquid nitrogen tanks, specifically designed to handle such material. They are fitted with alarms in case of low liquid nitrogen levels. The storage tanks will be held and maintained in the chosen SIMS IVF facility.  This facility is equipped with a monitored security system.

Each specimen frozen will be labelled with the client’s name, date of birth, a Semen Freezing Number and the date the sample is frozen.  The client information and semen storage data will be recorded on the freezer’s inventory management software and in the client's chart.

How do I arrange an appointment?

Please ensure your referring consultant has forwarded our semen cryopreservation referral form (CF-0190 v8) to our clinic. They will also need to arrange EU viral screening through the NVRL on your behalf.

Can I schedule an appointment while awaiting these?

Unfortunately, no appointment can be scheduled until the referral form and EU viral screen results have been received. Sims IVF will contact you once all relevant documentation and correct blood results are received.

How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

Semen Cryopreservation appointments for oncology patients are processed on a priority basis and scheduled depending on start dates for your possible treatment with your referring hospital.

What will happen at the appointment?

You will attend the clinic, sign consent forms and produce your sample in our private rooms. You will then be free to leave the clinic. Sample must be produced on-site.

How will I know if the sample is suitable for cryopreservation?

You will receive a call from our laboratory on the same day as your appointment to confirm the following

• The quality of the sample
• Was your sample suitable for freezing
• How many straws have been frozen

What if my sample is not suitable for cryopreservation or I only have a low number of straws frozen?

You will be given the opportunity to attend the clinic for a 2^nd appointment if advised by the Embryology Team

Can I attend for semen cryopreservation after I have undergone chemotherapy?

To avail of the National Oncology Fertility Preservation Service, which is publicly funded through the HSE (for those with public hospital referrals), it must be undertaken PRIOR to commencing any cancer treatment.