Seattle Sperm Bank offers different vial types for different treatment uses. We’re going to breakdown each vial type and what treatment types they are typically used for. You best source of information for your treatment plan will always come from your health care provider. But do not hesitate to reach out to us if you wish to learn more about our vial offerings or need any support!
IUI vials are the most common type of vial purchased regardless of treatment. IUI vials are washed which means the semen sample has been processed to remove the fluid portion (seminal fluid) and other cells found in semen samples (sperm cells that are not moving, white blood cells, skin cells). The contents that remain in an IUI sample are motile sperm cells, fluid that support the sperm cells, and cryoprotectant. Cryoprotectant is a fluid that helps the cells survive the freezing process.
IUI vials are ready to use for any insemination type, intrauterine insemination (IUI) with a healthcare professional or IVF. IUI vials can also be used at home for an intracervical insemination (ICI) or self-insemination.
Fast facts about IUI Vials
ICI vials are less common because they are harder for donors to produce. These samples are not washed to remove the seminal fluid and other cells. Instead, these semen samples have only cryoprotectant added to help the sperm cells survive the freezing process. This minimal processing means the semen sample must have exceptional quality without any further processing. As a result, fewer donors are able to provide these types of samples, and you will see fewer of these types of vials available for purchase.
ICI vials can be used for any insemination type, same as IUI vials. However, a healthcare professional will need to wash these samples before being used in an IUI or IVF procedure. These can be used for an at home or ICI without further processing.
Fast facts about ICI Vials
ART vials are a specialized type of vial with a lower number of motile sperm cells in comparison to standard IUI and ICI vials. These are both washed and unwashed ART vials, but with fewer total motile cells than other standard vials. These vials are a great option for IVF treatments, and can sometimes be used for insemination treatment cycles as well.
If you find that these are the only vials available for your chosen donor, it may be possible to use multiple vials for other treatment types. We recommend you speak with your healthcare team before purchasing these for your treatment.
Fast facts about ART vials
ICSI vials are a specialized type of vial with a limited number of motile sperm cells. These are washed vials, like IUI vial types, but with fewer total motile cells than other washed vials. These vials are a great option for ICSI treatments.
If you find that these are the only vials available for your chosen donor, it may be possible to use multiple vials for other treatment types. We recommend you speak with your healthcare team before purchasing these for your treatment.
Fast facts about ICSI vials
We recommend you speak with your healthcare team before purchasing these for your treatment.
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