The preparation process involves sperm washing, which separates sperm from the seminal fluid and removes any debris or non-motile sperm. In IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), the preparation of sperm is a crucial step to ensure successful fertilization. Once the sperm is collected, it undergoes a series of processes to isolate the healthiest and most motile sperm. Initially, the sample is analyzed to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology.

Sperm Preparation Techniques:

• Semen Analysis:
• The collected sperm sample is analyzed to assess sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and volume. This helps determine the best preparation method.

• Sperm Washing:
• Sperm washing is a process to separate sperm from the seminal fluid, which contains substances that can hinder fertilization.

• Techniques include:
• Density Gradient Centrifugation: Sperm are layered over a density gradient and centrifuged to isolate the most motile sperm.
• Swim-Up Technique: Sperm are placed in a medium and allowed to swim up, with the most motile sperm collected from the top layer.

• Sperm Capacitation:
• This step simulates natural changes that sperm undergo in the female reproductive tract, enhancing their ability to fertilize an egg. Sperm are incubated in a special medium to boost motility and fertilization potential.

• Selection for ICSI:
• For Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), individual sperm are selected under a microscope and directly injected into an egg, which is useful in severe cases of male infertility.