How Much It Costs to Freeze Sperm—and Why You Should Freeze Yours Before 45

Freezing sperm is often expensive and not covered by insurance.

Throughout history, societal expectations have often placed immense pressure on women to become mothers within a specific timeframe. However, it’s essential to recognize that concerns about age and fertility are not limited to any particular gender. People of all sexes and gender identities may have worries about how their age could affect their ability to have children. While it’s true that fertility statistics show a decline with age, regardless of sex or gender, it is still entirely possible to embark on the journey of parenthood well into one’s 30s, 40s, or beyond.

A 2019 comprehensive review of multiple studies shed light on the significant influence of a man’s age on various aspects of fertility, the well-being of their pregnant partner, and the health of their offspring. The findings of this review suggest that advanced paternal age is associated with a decline in fertility, an increased risk of pregnancy complications, and a heightened likelihood of health issues affecting the children.

One noteworthy recommendation from this research is the consideration of sperm freezing for individuals contemplating parenthood beyond the age of 35 or 45. This proactive measure can help mitigate the potential risks associated with advanced paternal age, providing a safety net for those who wish to start a family later in life.

The Health Risks Associated with Older Paternal Age

The aforementioned review of existing research pointed to certain health risks that may affect both pregnant individuals and their children when the father is older than 45. These risks include a heightened likelihood of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy or delivery.

Concerning the offspring, advanced paternal age is linked to an increased risk of premature and low-weight births, as well as birth defects like congenital heart disease and cleft palate. Additionally, children born to older fathers are more susceptible to being diagnosed with childhood cancers, psychiatric disorders, cognitive disorders, and autism.

Understanding the Risks

Researchers believe that these elevated risks may be attributed to a combination of factors, including lower testosterone levels, an accumulation of genetic mutations in sperm cells, and an overall decline in sperm count and quality. However, it is essential to note that more research is needed to establish causality conclusively.

As Dr. Gloria Bachmann, co-author of the study and director of the Women’s Health Institute at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, explained, just as individuals experience declines in muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance with age, sperm quality and fitness also tend to diminish over the life course.

Health Risks Associated with Older Maternal Age

Many of the risks associated with advanced paternal age are mirrored in older maternal age. Individuals who become pregnant beyond the age of 40 face an increased likelihood of cesarean section, preterm delivery, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and fetal death in utero. Unfortunately, individuals assigned male at birth are often not adequately informed by healthcare providers or society about the potential health risks associated with parenting children at an older age.

The Importance of Sperm Freezing

Given these risks, the authors of the study recommend that society encourages individuals to consider banking sperm before their 35th or, at the very least, their 45th birthday. This proactive step could help reduce the elevated health risks associated with aging sperm and promote maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.

However, it is crucial to note that there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for sperm freezing. Different experts hold varying opinions about the ideal age to freeze sperm. For example, the Southern California Reproductive Center suggests freezing sperm by the age of 40, while a 2017 review highlights potential negative effects on sperm, such as reduced motility, in some cases. Cost considerations also come into play when deciding whether to preserve sperm, as expenses can vary between facilities.

Exploring the Costs of Sperm Freezing

Regrettably, most health insurance plans do not cover the cost of sperm freezing. Individuals or couples considering this procedure should reach out to their insurance company before making arrangements to gain clarity on coverage policies. Fortunately, many sperm banks offer payment plans to make sperm freezing more financially accessible.

Costs depend on the facility and the duration of storage. For instance, Sppare.me offers a $700 kit that includes one year of free storage, with subsequent years priced at $145 each. Meanwhile, the Sperm Bank of California charges an initial fee of $1575, which covers the first year of storage, followed by an annual fee of $550 for additional years.

The Process of Freezing Sperm

Typically, the process of freezing sperm involves producing a semen sample at a sperm bank or a laboratory. Some sperm banks even offer at-home kits for collecting samples. The semen sample is then meticulously analyzed in a laboratory, and as long as it contains viable sperm cells, it can be frozen and stored for future use.

Reducing the Risks of Older Paternal Age

While research on reducing the risks of advanced paternal age is limited, certain steps can be taken to enhance fertility, improve sperm quality, and promote positive outcomes for both parents and children. These steps include maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, refraining from smoking or using recreational drugs, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing stress management. For personalized advice, individuals can consult with healthcare providers or fertility specialists to determine the most suitable approach for their unique circumstances.

In Summary

Parenthood is a deeply personal and meaningful journey, and the decision to start a family should be made with careful consideration of the potential health risks associated with advanced paternal or maternal age. Research indicates that individuals who wish to have children after the age of 45 may face increased health risks for their pregnant partners and offspring, including birth defects, premature births, and preeclampsia, among other concerns.

While experts may differ in their recommendations regarding sperm freezing, it is clear that proactive measures can be taken to safeguard maternal and fetal health. Sperm freezing is one such option, and its costs can vary, with payment plans often available to make it more affordable.

Ultimately, if you are over the age of 35 and contemplating parenthood, it is advisable to engage in open and informed discussions with healthcare providers to gain a deeper understanding of the potential risks and how they can be mitigated. Parenthood is a beautiful journey, and with the right information and proactive steps, individuals can navigate it with confidence and joy, regardless of their age.