Understanding vial types and insemination options
Regardless of the procedure you choose, here’s your chance to learn more to better inform your purchase decision.
Describing sperm specimens
You’ll notice that when we refer to the specimen used in our vials, we include certain words such as “volume,” “motility,” “washed,” and others to describe what each vial type contains. Here’s some more information about the factors we use to categorize these specimens and quantify the actual sperm within our vials.
The volume refers to the total amount of specimen in each vial. Our laboratory uses calibrated instruments to deliver a specific volume of specimen in every vial. Sometimes when extracting the specimen from the vial, a miniscule amount may be left clinging to the side of the vial or its lid. For that reason, we list an estimated total volume that can be expected to be extracted.
Motility refers to the sperm’s ability to move through the female reproductive system and fertilize the egg. Progressive motility — meaning the sperm is moving in a forward, linear fashion at a favorable speed, as opposed to moving erratically or in small tight circles — is preferred. Total motility for a previously frozen sperm sample is on average 52%.
Vial types
ICI (intracervical insemination)
IUI (intrauterine insemination)
IVF (in vitro fertilization)
ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection)
Sperm quantities
Although every one of our vials is created using quality sperm, each vial type will vary by volume and the total number of motile sperm (TOMO). Here is what you can expect for each vial type.
Vial-freezing process
Once a donation is made, it’s carefully evaluated to ensure its quality and to determine its vial type(s) before making it available to our families.
Step 1
The sperm donation is evaluated for count and motility.
Step 2
Vial type is determined based on the specimen’s TOMO per volume. The specimen will be washed, if necessary for that vial type.
Step 3
All specimens will remain in quarantine for a minimum of six months and will only be released if the donor continues to test negative for infectious disease.
Step 4
These vials will continue to be safely and securely cryopreserved and stored at our state-of-the-art facility until you need them.
Planning for an in-clinic or at-home procedure
While some procedures can only be performed in your doctor’s office, for ICI, you can choose to do the insemination at home. Here’s some important information to help you plan for either location.
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Please note: You’ll need to decide before you make your purchase if your insemination will take place in the clinic or at home. You may submit only a Physician Shipment Authorization form or an At-Home Insemination Shipment Authorization form, not both.
In-clinic procedure
In-clinic procedure
At-home insemination
Instructions for at-home insemination
Handling precautions
General instructions
While we provide general instructions on the handling of sperm vials for at-home insemination, we strongly recommend you consult with a physician or women’s healthcare professional prior to attempting this procedure. For example, timing with your menstrual cycle is an important variable in determining the success of an insemination. Please understand it is your responsibility to appropriately maintain the specimen(s) prior to insemination. Please reference your Purchase and Storage Agreement regarding the terms of donor insemination.
Tank return considerations
Regardless of whether your insemination was done at home or at your doctor’s office, you’re responsible for returning the tank to California Cryobank. Please make arrangements with your doctor’s office to return any tank that was received or left with them.
Handling precautions
General instructions
While we provide general instructions on the handling of sperm vials for at-home insemination, we strongly recommend you consult with a physician or women’s healthcare professional prior to attempting this procedure. For example, timing with your menstrual cycle is an important variable in determining the success of an insemination. Please understand it is your responsibility to appropriately maintain the specimen(s) prior to insemination. Please reference your Purchase and Storage Agreement regarding the terms of donor insemination.
Tank return considerations
Regardless of whether your insemination was done at home or at your doctor’s office, you’re responsible for returning the tank to California Cryobank. Please make arrangements with your doctor’s office to return any tank that was received or left with them.
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