How Can Sperm Washing Help AI & IVF?
Sperm washing is an important procedure that is used prior to artificial insemination (AI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). Sperm washing prepares a man’s sperm by removing chemicals from the semen. These chemicals could be harmful during a future pregnancy and can cause adverse reactions in the female’s uterus.
How does sperm washing work?
During sperm washing, sperm is separated from seminal fluid. A trial wash is often used in order to determine if the technique is a viable approach to achieving a pregnancy with AI or IVF. At the Fertility Center of California, there are three types of sperm washing:
- Basic sperm wash
- Premium wash
- Swim-up technique
Your fertility specialist can help determine which sperm washing type is best for your individual situation.
Why is sperm washing needed?
Placing semen into a women’s uterus during AI/IVF without the benefit of sperm washing can cause complications. Sperm washing not only removes chemicals that can cause complications, but also can remove sperm with low motility or dead sperm. With lower quality and dead sperm removed, chances are improved for a successful assisted reproductive procedure because the remaining sperm are faster and healthier.
Is sperm washing right for me?
It’s likely that a fertility specialist will recommended sperm washing for those undergoing AI/IVF and IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) procedures; however, there are certain cases in which sperm washing is especially beneficial:
- Men with anti-sperm antibodies
- Men with a diagnosed infertility issue
- Cases of unexplained infertility
- Women diagnosed with endometriosis
The Fertility Center of California offers patients an affordable range of sperm washing options:
- Basic wash: $150
- Premium wash: $200
- Mini-premium wash: $170
- Retrograde wash: $250
- Gender pre-selection (with sperm wash): $700
- Specimen thaw: $25
If you would like to learn more about sperm washing, or if you are a potential AI or IVF candidate who is interested in using sperm washing, please contact the Fertility Center of California.
