Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Sperm Washing
A laboratory process to separate motile sperm from seminal fluid and debris for use in ART procedures.
Full Definition
Sperm washing is a laboratory technique used to isolate the most viable and motile sperm from semen samples by removing seminal plasma, dead sperm, white blood cells, and other cellular debris. Common methods include density gradient centrifugation and swim-up techniques. This process is essential for intrauterine insemination and IVF procedures, as it concentrates healthy sperm and removes potentially harmful substances that could interfere with fertilization or embryo development.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'sperm capacitation,' which refers to the natural physiological changes sperm undergo.
In Context
- "The sperm washing procedure yielded 2.5 million motile sperm for the IUI cycle." — Laboratory report
- "Sperm washing is contraindicated in cases of severe oligozoospermia where ICSI is preferred." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
sperm preparation
sperm processing
Don't confuse with
sperm capacitation
sperm selection