Last updated on May 15, 2025
When choosing a permanent contraception method, vasectomy remains the most common option for men in New Zealand, particularly the minimally invasive no-scalpel technique. Chosen for its reliability and long-term effectiveness, the procedure is considered permanent. For this reason it is important to explore all your options before going ahead, especially if there’s any chance you may want children in the future.
One of the most practical steps to consider is freezing sperm before your vasectomy. In this blog, we’ll explore why sperm freezing can be a wise precautionary measure, helping you retain future fertility options and make a fully informed decision before undergoing your vasectomy procedure.
Understanding the Vasectomy Decision
A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to permanently prevent pregnancy. A no-scalpel vasectomy involves accessing and sealing the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm, which prevents sperm from mixing with semen.
This straightforward procedure is widely chosen due to its minimal discomfort, quick recovery and exceptional effectiveness (99.95%) as permanent contraception. However, the permanence of the procedure is exactly why careful consideration is needed. While some men are confident they’ll never want additional children, life circumstances can change.
Factors such as remarriage or even a shift in personal feelings can lead to reconsideration. Although a vasectomy reversal is possible, it is not always successful and can be costly and complex. Therefore, exploring fertility preservation beforehand is worth considering.
Freezing sperm before vasectomy provides peace of mind for those who may want children in the future.
What Is Sperm Freezing?
Sperm freezing (also known as sperm banking or sperm storage) is a proven fertility preservation method that involves collecting, freezing and storing your sperm for future use. The process is straightforward and typically involves:
- Providing one or more semen samples at a clinic
- Semen analysis, which ensures the quality and viability of the sperm
- Freezing and storing the sperm at ultra-low temperatures
Frozen sperm can remain viable for decades, maintaining the option of biological children later through assisted reproductive techniques like IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
Why Consider Freezing Sperm Before a Vasectomy?
Although most men who opt for a vasectomy procedure are certain about their decision, life can be unpredictable. Freezing sperm offers peace of mind and flexibility in case your circumstances change. Some key reasons to consider sperm freezing include:
- Unexpected life changes: Relationship breakdown, remarriage, or loss of a child could alter your decision about having more children.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you still have a fertility option available can ease the decision to pursue permanent contraception.
- Limitations of vasectomy reversal: Reversals are not always successful, may require complicated surgery and can be significantly more expensive than initial sperm storage.
Who Should Freeze Sperm Before Vasectomy?
Sperm freezing is beneficial for many men considering a vasectomy, particularly:
- Men under 40: Younger men are more likely to reconsider family planning choices as their personal circumstances evolve.
- Men without children: Those who currently do not have children but are choosing vasectomy for contraception should strongly consider sperm freezing to retain future fertility options.
- Those undecided about permanent contraception: If you have any lingering doubts or uncertainty about permanently ending your fertility, preserving sperm is a sensible choice.
Before committing to permanent contraception, consider freezing sperm before vasectomy to keep your options open.
How to Arrange Sperm Freezing in New Zealand
The Cooper Clinic specialises exclusively in no-scalpel vasectomies and does not directly provide sperm freezing or storage services. However, organising sperm freezing independently before your vasectomy procedure is straightforward and typically involves contacting a dedicated fertility clinic or sperm bank.
Common steps include:
- Scheduling an initial consultation at a fertility preservation clinic
- Semen analysis and sample collection
- Lab processing and storage
- Payment of storage fees (usually an annual cost)
Completing this step before your vasectomy ensures that you retain viable, high-quality sperm should you ever need it in future.
Conclusion
Freezing sperm before undergoing your no-scalpel vasectomy procedure is a proactive step that provides valuable reassurance. Even if you never need to use your stored sperm, having this option available ensures you remain in full control of your fertility decisions. If you have any questions about vasectomy or wish to discuss fertility concerns, The Cooper Clinic can provide personalised guidance during your initial consultation.
How to book a vasectomy appointment
- Fill out our online booking form
- Call us: 0800 884 408
- Email us: info@thecooperclinic.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
Is freezing sperm before vasectomy necessary?
It isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly advisable if there’s any chance you might want children in future. It preserves fertility options without affecting the effectiveness of your vasectomy.
Can frozen sperm be used years after a vasectomy?
Yes, frozen sperm can be stored for many years and still be used effectively in assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF or ICSI. As long as the sperm has been properly stored, the passage of time does not significantly impact its viability.
How much does sperm freezing cost in New Zealand?
Sperm freezing typically involves an upfront fee for collection and freezing, plus an annual storage fee. Costs vary between clinics, so it’s best to check with a fertility provider for current pricing.
How long can sperm remain frozen and viable?
Properly stored frozen sperm can remain viable for decades, potentially over 20 years or more, without significant loss of quality or fertility potential.
Can you still use frozen sperm after having a vasectomy?
Yes. Frozen sperm can be used successfully in fertility treatments such as IVF or ICSI, enabling biological parenthood even after permanent contraception procedures.
About The Author
Dr Luke Wee
Meet Luke, our very own vasman. NZ men benefit from his hands-on experience in performing nearly 3,000 vasectomies! Luke has a special interest in men’s health and vasectomy procedures. He’s a Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, a member of the Association of Surgeons in Primary Care and an international vasectomy peer group. Luke keeps his thumb on the pulse and consistently updates his skills and knowledge by attending national and international conferences.
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