Inexpensive thermal containers and insulation materials prevent deterioration of semen parameters for less than 90 minutes

Abstract

Male infertility contributes substantially to overall infertility, with temperature changes adversely affecting the sperm quality. During infertility treatments, the exposure of home-collected semen to extreme temperatures during transport deteriorates the semen parameters. This study investigates the effectiveness of thermal containers and insulation materials for preserving semen quality at low temperatures. Semen samples from 35 healthy male partners undergoing fertility treatments were analyzed. The samples were segregated in three groups and assessed: standard collection containers (Group A), thermal containers (Group B), and thermal containers with warming materials (Group C). Samples exposed to 4°C exhibited a notable decline in motility and forward motility over time, whereas groups B and C maintained these parameters better. Group C maintained the internal temperature at approximately 20°C for up to 90 min, reducing cold-induced deterioration. These findings demonstrate that cost-effective thermal retention methods can preserve semen quality during transport, and potentially improve the outcomes of intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization.

Graphical Abstract