Hi all,

I stored my sperm 7 years ago before transitioning, and now that I'm post op, that's all the sperm that I'll ever make! As it's nearing the ten year limit, I have a few questions which I haven't been able to find direct answers to (and of course any information available is aimed at cis men)

- At the end of the ten years - how likely is it I can extend this period?
- If I donate the sperm can I choose what rights I have over the child? Is it decided?
- I am aware that the chance of fertilisation is relatively low (about 20%) - with one sample, is there only one chance, or can one sample be used for several fertilisation attempts?

Thanks in advance!

Well I don't know the numbers but I do know how you can still get it to work.  Artificial Insemination.  What they do is take the egg out and take your seed out.  Then mix it in a dish.  That way the little buggers don't have to swim all the way.  I mean mobility is the big thing.  And swimming all the way up the tube is like a marathon.

See when I went in to store.  I found out I'm 99% sterile to begin with.  Much drinking ensued.  Probably my only ever black out drinking.  Bad.  um.  But so!  they told me that I wasn't screwed.  They could really up the odds with Artificial Insemination.  Because my count was so low. 

In terms of the 10 years I'm not too sure. I would contact your bank as they will have info on that. From what I understand you need a medical note from a GP (or equivalent) and you can apply for an extension for up to 50 or 55 years.. Can't remember :/

In terms of sample numbers - I've frozen 3 'samples'. Each sample is frozen as a number of small vials, or at least that's how they did it with me. My 3 samples I think gave me 18 or so vials, and each one of those can be used for one treatment cycle of ICSI or IVF, each single cycle (ie using one vial) has a 20% success rate. Note that the success rate includes successful pregnancy. Also bear in mind that it includes problems when thawing the sample for use, ie when they thaw it, too many cells may die...etc.

I recommend you get an appt with your bank, or with an andrologist.

Hope this helps! x