Sperm processing is a procedure done to isolate motile sperms from non-motile sperms. It is mainly done to collect sperms of good quality. It is done as a part of Assisted Reproductive Techniques. The method of sperm processing involves various steps such as:
Separation of the sperm
There are various techniques used for this procedure. One of the most common among them is the density gradient separation. A colloidal solution is used based on the density. Poor/ non-motile sperms and blood cells are separated from sperms of best quality.
Other sperm separation methods are:
- Swim-Up Procedure
- Migration-sedimentation
- Glass Wool Filtration
- Glass beeds
- Sephadex Columns
- Transmembrane Migration
- Sperm Washing- This is a technique where the sperm is removed from the semen.
- Sperm Preservation and thawing- Best quality sperms selected will be preserved for further use.
- Storing the sperm- The sperm will be stored in a clinical laboratory under -196F temperature
- IUI– Implanting the sperm into the uterus.