What is "banking" sperm?

You may have heard the term “banking” sperm, but might not know exactly what it means or how important it is in preserving your fertility. Essentially, “banking” sperm means providing a semen sample for freezing.

The Importance of Freezing Sperm
Freezing sperm, or sperm cryopreservation, prior to treatment is critical because it probably gives you the best chance of having children in the future. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are lethal not only to cancer cells, but also to fast-growing cells such as sperm. Treatment can have a number of different effects on men, depending on the duration and dosage of therapy, the treatment regimen, and even the age of the individual. Although treatments such as alkalating agents serve a vital role in saving a person’s life, they can also have a significantly negative effect on fertility. It’s difficult for doctors to know exactly what the effect of cancer treatment will be on a person’s fertility. But cancer therapy can lead to very low numbers of sperm or even no sperm in the ejaculate, thus resulting in infertility. In a video link to the right, Dr. Robert Brannigan, a urologist and fertility specialist, discusses the experience of young men who were unaware of the opportunity to preserve their sperm prior to cancer treatment. Providing a semen sample for freezing is a relatively straightforward procedure that can allow you to start planning for your life after cancer—one that may someday include having children.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What is the cost of storage?
The cost of freezing your sperm averages $200 to $500, depending on the center. There is an additional annual storage fee. If you move or change your address, remember to contact the center so that your specimen is appropriately handled.

Will my cancer therapy cause birth defects or other abnormalities in my future child?
Several studies show that people with a history of cancer therapy have no additional risk for having offspring with congenital abnormalities or birth defects as a result of their cancer therapy.

Will I pass this cancer on to my future offspring?
There are certainly some cancers that run in families and can be passed on from a parent to their child. Based on current research, however, most cancers seem to be spontaneous, caused by environmental and other factors. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your concerns.

What are the issues involved in sperm ownership?
Sperm is considered the property of the man who provided it. In some circumstances, sperm ownership could be transferred to another party. These issues should be discussed with your sperm bank.