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Sperm washing was developed to make treatments like IVF (in vitro fertilisation) or “test-tube baby” procedures more effective. It plays a key role in assisted reproduction and helps couples with fertility challenges.
Why is Sperm Washing Important?
Sperm washing is important when performing assisted reproduction. Sperm washing increases the success rate of fertility treatments like IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) and IVF. Sperm washing is important because:- It separates healthy, motile sperm from the rest of the semen.
- It improves sperm quality and motility.
- It reduces DNA damage and other harmful components.
- It lowers the risk of infections or virus transmission, such as HIV.
How Does Sperm Washing Work?
Sperm washing is performed in a lab using specific methods. The main goal of the procedure is to isolate the healthiest sperm. Sperm washing is done in the following steps:- Semen collection: A Semen sample is collected from the non-birthing partner
- Mixing with solution: The semen collected is mixed with a special liquid for preparation.
- Spinning in a centrifuge: The sample is then spun to separate healthy sperm from dead cells and debris.
- Collecting motile sperm: After spinning, the most active sperm settle at the bottom.
- Removing extra fluid: Unwanted particles are discarded.
- Final preparation: Only the washed sperm are used for insemination or IVF.
Techniques Used in Sperm Washing
There are several techniques used to wash sperm. Each method is chosen based on sperm quality, count, and treatment needs.- Simple Washing: In simple washing, the semen collected is diluted in the culture medium and spun at low speed.
- Swim-Up Technique: In this technique, motile sperm swim upward into a special solution, leaving debris behind.
- Density Gradient Centrifugation (DGC): Density gradient centrifugation (DGC) is a sperm-washing method that separates healthy sperm based on their weight.
- Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS): These devices sort healthy, moving sperm from semen using fluid flow. The process is gentle, removes waste, and lowers DNA damage.
- Microfluidic Sperm Sorter (QUALIS): Microfluidic devices are used to pick the most motile sperm. The method reduces physical stress and lowers the risk of DNA damage. While it needs only a small sample, the sperm yield is lower, making it less suitable for IUI.
Who Needs Sperm Washing?
Sperm washing is useful for individuals who have:- Low sperm count or poor motility
- Unexplained infertility
- Mild male factor infertility
- Semen allergies
- HIV-positive male partner
- Using donor sperm
What is Sperm Washing in IUI?
In IUI, washed sperm are placed directly into the woman’s uterus. This process increases the chances of fertilisation.Process of Preparing Sperm for IUI
The process of preparing sperm for IUI follows the steps:- A semen sample is collected.
- Unhealthy sperm and seminal fluid are removed.
- Healthy sperm are separated using the swim-up or DGC method.
- The isolated sperm is placed directly into the uterus.
Success Factors:
The success of sperm washing from IUI depends on:- Female partner’s age and health
- Sperm count and motility
- Cause of infertility
- Timing of insemination
What is Sperm Washing in IVF?
Sperm washing is an important step in IVF because it helps select the healthiest sperm for fertilising the egg. By doing so, it improves embryo development and increases the chances of successful implantation. In advanced methods like ICSI, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into the egg for better results.Benefits of advanced techniques:
- Higher fertilisation rates
- Better embryo quality
- Improved IVF success
How to prepare for sperm washing?
Before the procedure, making simple lifestyle changes can greatly improve the results. Eating an antioxidant-rich diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep all support better sperm health. Managing stress and seeking emotional support or counselling can also boost sperm quality and increase the chances of successful fertilisation.What are the Risks and Side Effects of Sperm Washing?
While sperm washing is a generally safe procedure, there are some risks involved. These risk factors include:- Minor loss of healthy sperm
- DNA damage from centrifugation
- Extra cost of treatment
- Rare procedural complications
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FAQs on Sperm Washing in Fertility Treatments: What It Is and How It Works
- Is sperm washing important for IUI?
Yes, sperm washing is essential for IUI. Sperm washing before IUI helps select the healthiest sperm for fertilisation. - Does sperm wash guarantee pregnancy?
While sperm washing improves the chances of pregnancy by using the best sperm, various other factors affect the success. Apart from sperm quality, egg quality, age, and health are also essential.
