Dilemma: Renewing frozen sperm samples

[missbrightside]

Hi, this seems like an unusual thing to ask but has anyone had experience freezing sperm? Last year when we became eligible for NHS funding we were advised to privately pay for OHs sperm to be frozen before beginning our cycle, as we have male factor infertility (amongst other things) and therefore the sample would be a back up should there be no viable sperm.

Almost a year later we have begun our third IVF cycle with egg collection (all being well) due w/c 22nd October. However today I received a letter from the clinic asking whether we were renewing the storage or letting the sample perish. Frustratingly the sample was given on 23rd October last year and I am really reluctant to pay £310 for a whole years storage when a) it is just a back up, which we haven't needed before b) we will know whether it is needed within days of the twelve month renewal date and c) this is our last cycle! Has anyone else had this issue and were the clinics flexible? I was going to call them tomorrow asking if we can part pay for the year as I am loathed to pay for 12 months storage for something we have never needed and for what essentially might be just a few days.

Any thoughts or suggestions? Many thanks x

[Tugsgirl]

Hi. We had a similar situation with embryos. We paid £250 for a years storage but we’d used them within a few months of paying. We asked our clinic about a partial refund at least because we’d paid for 12 months and hadn’t used it for 12 months. The clinic actually offered us a full refund or credit on our account xx

[missbrightside in reply to Tugsgirl]

Thank you that is really encouraging to hear. It's reassuring to know of a positive experience, fingers crossed my clinic will be as accommodating! Thank you x

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi missbrightside. Could you get your current clinic to have the sperm samples transferred before the storage renewal date is up? Worth asking. Good luck! Diane

[missbrightside in reply to DianeArnold]

Thank you Diane, fortunately they were good enough to give me a brief extension, but I appreciate the suggestion. Hopefully the sample won't be needed and we can go with fresh. All the best x

[missbrightside]

Update: I have spoken to the clinic, and they were much more accommodating than I expected, saying that they would extend the renewal for a few weeks before we have to make the decision- such a relief emotionally and financially! Thank you for your support and encouragement x

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK in reply to missbrightside]

Hi. That’s such a relief for you both. I’m so pleased. Thinking of you. Diane xx

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