Frequently asked questions

When should I freeze my sperm before a vasectomy?

Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

Up to 1 in 10 people who have a vasectomy will eventually seek a reversal. The truth is that you may change your mind about having (more) kids in the future. Sperm freezing is a reliable back-up plan that’s significantly more affordable and less invasive than a vasectomy reversal later on.

We recommend ordering your sperm freezing kit(s) as soon as you schedule your vasectomy. This should give you time to freeze one or multiple samples prior to your appointment.

What’s the process of vasectomy?

Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

Vasectomy is a procedure in which the vas deferens, the ducts that connect the testes to the urethra in the penis, are cut. This prevents sperm from entering your semen (ejaculate or “cum”) without affecting your sexual function or hormones.

What’s included with an at-home sperm testing kit?

Process & kit components

Sperm testing

The Legacy kit includes:

The Legacy “vault,” an insulated zippered container that maintains a stable temperature during transportation.
A sterile sample cup to easily collect your sample from home.
The sperm transport liquid — a vial of pink fluid — to keep your sample viable during shipping.
A security padlock to seal the vault + a strip of tamper-proof tape for extra security.
Free overnight shipping to send your sample to our lab for analysis.
Access to Legacy’s client dashboard, where you’ll be able to see your results, where your sample is frozen, and more.

The Standard & Advanced Semen Analysis options also include lifetime access to our Insights dashboard, including your Sperm Score and a comparison of your metrics against thousands of clients your age.

Can I use Legacy if I’m under 18?

Process & kit components

Sperm testing

Sperm freezing

Yes, Legacy is an option for minors. Parent or guardian permission is required. Contact our client experience team at clientservices@givelegacy.com with the subject line “minor storage agreement.” We’ll reply with a document for the client and the parent/guardian to sign before sending a sample for freezing.

How long does it take to freeze sperm with Legacy?

Sperm freezing

The process of sperm freezing is very quick with Legacy:

Once you order your kit, it will arrive in as little as 2 days.
You should abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days prior to producing your sample for freezing.
After producing your sample at home, it will be shipped overnight and analyzed and frozen the next day.

In theory, it can take as little as 3 days from start to finish. So, you don’t need to postpone your hormone therapy in order to accomplish your fertility preservation goals.

What are my chances of conceiving with frozen sperm?

Sperm freezing

Trying to conceive

The chances of conceiving with frozen sperm depend on several factors:

Your sperm quantity and quality
Your partner’s age, egg quantity/quality, and overall fertility health
Whether you use intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

IUI pregnancy rates range from 10–25% per cycle; IVF success rates range from 5–50% per cycle. So, you may need multiple attempts to achieve pregnancy. The good news is that using frozen sperm doesn’t affect your chances of success. IUI and IVF pregnancy rates are the same for those using frozen sperm, compared to “fresh.”

I may use a surrogate or gestational carrier to start a family in the future. Can I work with Legacy?

Process & kit components

Sperm freezing

Trying to conceive

If you would like to freeze your sample for use with a surrogate or gestational carrier, please reach out. There are strict FDA regulations that must be followed when banking your sperm for surrogacy, and we want to set you up for success.

How can I use my frozen sperm after I transition?

Sperm freezing

Gender transition

Trying to conceive

You can use your frozen sperm in an intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. Generally speaking, one vial of sperm is used in each IUI or IVF procedure.

1 semen sample = 4 vials of frozen sperm
1 vial of frozen sperm = 1 IUI or IVF procedure

How long can my sperm stay frozen?

Sperm freezing

Trying to conceive

As long as sperm is kept frozen in a high quality cryogenic lab like Legacy’s, it can be stored indefinitely with no significant impact on its quality or the chances that it will result in a healthy pregnancy. That means you can keep your sperm frozen until you’re ready to start a family.

How many vials of sperm should I freeze before starting hormone therapy?

Gender transition

Short answer: as many as you can afford. But the ideal number of samples to store also depends on your future plans. A few questions you might consider:

Do you plan to or hope to get bottom surgery? If yes, you may want to freeze more sperm, since you won’t have the option to recover your fertility.
Do you want one child, multiple children, or maybe you’re not sure you want kids at all? How much sperm you should freeze will change depending on family size and how certain you are that you want biological children in the future.

Generally speaking, one vial of sperm is used in each IUI or IVF procedure.

1 semen sample = 4 vials of frozen sperm
1 vial of frozen sperm = 1 IUI or IVF procedure

IUI pregnancy rates range from 10–25% per cycle; IVF success rates range from 5–50% per cycle. So, you may need multiple attempts to achieve pregnancy.

How does gender-affirming surgery, such as vaginoplasty or vulvoplasty, affect fertility?

Gender transition

Gender-affirming surgery for trans women typically includes orchiectomy, the removal of the testes. Orchiectomy will result in irreversible, total sterility.

If you plan to undergo vaginoplasty, vulvoplasty, or orchiectomy and may want a biological child in the future, we highly recommend freezing at least 3 semen samples to maximize the chances of creating a healthy pregnancy.

I already started hormone therapy. Is it too late to freeze my sperm?

Gender transition

Not necessarily. It takes time for your hormone therapy to affect your fertility. Additionally, hormone therapy affects each person differently. After taking gender-affirming hormones for months or years, you may still produce some sperm. The quantity and quality of sperm may deteriorate progressively the longer you’ve been taking HRT.

If you’re already taking hormone therapy, we recommend starting with a semen analysis. This test will assess the quality of your semen and determine whether your sample is viable for freezing.

If you do a semen analysis with Legacy and have viable sperm, you can upgrade your purchase to include freezing, and freeze that sample immediately.

If you don’t have viable sperm, you can consider pausing your hormone therapy for 3–6 months to see if sperm production resumes before continuing with the fertility preservation process.

When should I freeze my sperm before hormone therapy?

Gender transition

Sperm freezing

We recommend freezing sperm before starting hormone therapy, in order to freeze the highest quality of sperm possible. The higher the quantity and quality of sperm, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to create a pregnancy with that sperm in the future.

However, we know this isn’t always possible, and that in many cases, people will begin hormone therapy prior to exploring fertility preservation. It may still be possible to freeze sperm even after starting GAHT/HRT. We recommend a semen analysis to assess fertility before freezing.

Will my fertility return if I stop taking estrogen or T-blockers?

Gender transition

Maybe. The “sperm cycle” — how long it takes to produce new sperm — is about 3 months, so you will likely have to pause hormone therapy for at least this long in order to recover fertility. One study found that within 6 months of stopping estrogen therapy, 67% of subjects regained a normal sperm count. That means about 1 of every 3 trans women may be unable to recover their fertility after beginning a medical transition.

How does gender-affirming hormone therapy affect fertility?

Gender transition

Gender-affirming hormone therapy, including estrogen and androgen-blockers (also known as “T-blockers”), is likely to impair or even halt sperm production.

The effect seems to be dose-dependent. In one study, researchers found that low-dose estrogen therapy had no impact on sperm concentration or motility, while a higher-dose regimen resulted in reduced sperm motility after just a few days and reduced sperm concentration after 2 weeks.

Can trans women use Legacy to freeze their sperm?

Gender transition

Yes! Anyone who produces sperm can use Legacy for sperm freezing. At-home sample collection is a more accessible, comfortable, and affordable option for sperm freezing.

Will Legacy use my name and pronouns?

Gender transition

Yes. We must use your legal name on your contracts and paperwork. However, we’ll ask for — and use — a preferred name during onboarding, on your client dashboard and in all client services communications. We want every client to feel as comfortable as possible during this process.

I have sperm frozen with Legacy. Will Legacy ever sell, donate, or share this frozen sperm?

Process & kit components

No. Your frozen sperm remains your property, under your control, for future use only by you or an authorized user. If you choose to move forward with sperm donation, you will be asked to produce new additional samples.

Can I choose which sperm bank I’m referred to?

No items found.

We’ll pair your responses with your Legacy semen analysis results to evaluate our eligibility. If you qualify, we’ll securely share your contact information with a participating sperm bank near you.

What happens after I submit the questionnaire?

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How long does the questionnaire take to complete?

No items found.

Most clients complete the questionnaire in under 5 minutes.

Can I use frozen sperm for IUI, IVF or ICSI?

Process & kit components

Yes, you can use frozen sperm for intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). If you’re doing a fertility treatment cycle, having a healthy frozen sperm sample on hand can be an important back-up plan.

Should I freeze my sperm prior to my vasectomy?

Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

Getting a vasectomy is a big (and final) decision. Although vasectomy reversal is an option should circumstances change, it is expensive and not often effective. Sperm freezing before getting a vasectomy is the best way for individuals and couples to keep their options open. Learn more about sperm freezing before vasectomy.

How important is sperm morphology to my overall fertility?

Sperm testing

Sperm morphology (shape) is an important marker of fertility because sperm need to be a certain shape to penetrate and fertilize an egg. Having a higher number of abnormally shaped sperm is associated with infertility. However, even those with 0% normal morphology have conceived without medical assistance. The most important factor when assessing a person's chance of conceiving is their total motile sperm count (TMSC), the number of sperm in their sample that are moving or "swimming."

Should I test my sperm post vasectomy?

Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

Yes, you should do a semen analysis to check if a vasectomy has been successful, typically 12–16 weeks after the procedure (follow your doctor's instructions). Legacy's standard semen analysis is a good option for post-vasectomy testing.

Should I test my sperm after a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

Yes. It can take 6–12 months for sperm production to resume after a reversal. For this reason, experts recommend that you test regularly for 1–2 years after the procedure to ensure sperm health is recovering. Legacy's standard semen analysis is an easy way to check whether a vasectomy reversal was effective.

What is my ClientID? Where can I find it?

Process & kit components

When your order is approved, you're automatically assigned a randomized 6-digit client ID that travels with your sample. This keeps your name and identifying information anonymous.

You will recieve your client ID via email. If you haven't seen these emails in your inbox, check your Spam or Promotions folders. You can also find your ClientID by signing in to your client dashboard.

I'm trying to conceive. When should I test my sperm?

Trying to conceive

It's a good idea to test your sperm before you start trying to conceive — although anytime is a good time. Our standard semen analysis tests for the main parameters of sperm health (count, concentration, motility, morphology, and semen volume). Sperm testing can identify factors that may make conception difficult, and can reduce the time to pregnancy.

If you are over 35, planning IUI or IVF, or have a history of pregnancy loss, we recommend semen analysis plus sperm DNA fragmentation, a test that measures percentage of sperm that contain damaged DNA.

I sent my kit back without registering it. What should I do?

Process & kit components

The kit registration process collects necessary information about your sample, and the lab cannot process your sample without these details. If you sent your kit back with registering it, please email clientservices@givelegacy.com, or call us at 617-514-0901 as soon as possible to avoid delays or kit rejection.

Should I refrigerate my sperm sample while waiting for pick-up or drop-off?

Process & kit components

Do not refrigerate your sample.

How do I set up my client dashboard?

Process & kit components

When you place an order with us, you will receive an email confirmation containing a link to set up a password for your client dashboard. The client dashboard is where you can access details about your purchase, your test results, and more.

If you've misplaced that email, don't worry: You can still access your portal. Go to the client dashboard and select "Don't remember your password?" Then, input the email address you used when placing the order. An email with a reset link should appear in your inbox within 5 minutes; you can also check your Spam or Promotions folders. If that doesn't work, email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call us at 617-514-0901. The email address you use to reset your password should be an exact match, or you might not receive that reset link.

My sample was not picked up. What should I do?

Process & kit components

If no one arrived during the scheduled window to pick up your sample, please let the Legacy team know as soon as possible. They will follow up with the shipping carrier on your behalf. Email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call 617-514-0901.

In the meantime, you may drop off your kit at a participating shipping location. You must return your kit to the same shipping partner that delivered it (i.e. FedEx, if it was delivered by FedEx, or UPS, if it was delivered by UPS).

I placed my order, but I haven't received a confirmation email.

Process & kit components

You should receive a welcome email soon after placing your order. If you haven't heard from us more than 24 hours after you've placed an order, check your spam or promotions folders. To ensure you see future emails from Legacy, add us as a trusted contact or drag our emails to your primary inbox.If you haven't received a welcome email, please reach out to us at clientservices@givelegacy.com or 617-514-0901.

How can I reset my password?

Process & kit components

When you’re logging in to your client dashboard, click or tap “Don't remember your password?” Input the email address you used when placing the order. An email with a reset link should be delivered to your inbox within 5 minutes (you can also check your Spam or Promotions folder).When you're resetting your password, make sure to input the email address that was used when placing your Legacy order. If that doesn't solve the issue for you, please reach out to us at clientservices@givelegacy.com or 617-514-0901.

I produced my sample after too long/too short a period of abstinence. How will that affect my sample?

Process & kit components

Abstaining too long — or not long enough — can affect the accuracy of your test results. Samples produced after too brief a period of abstinence may have lower semen volumes or sperm counts, while samples produced after too long an abstinent period may have genetic damage or low motility. We recommend abstaining from ejaculation for no less than 2, but no more than 5 days before producing your sample for optimal results.

What happens if I send the kit back without the security padlock?

Process & kit components

Legacy’s lab won’t be able to proceed with the analysis if you send your sample back without the security padlock. Please contact clientservices@givelegacy.com about receiving a new kit.

I accidentally removed the security padlock. What should I do?

Process & kit components

If you encounter an issue with the security padlock before shipping your sample back to the lab, please email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call 617-514-0901 immediately, so we can instruct you about how to proceed. If your kit arrives at the lab without a security padlock or the security padlock is broken, it will not be analyzed.

I didn't refrigerate the sperm transport liquid. What should I do?

Process & kit components

The transport liquid can be stored at room temperature for 5 days without affecting its efficacy. If your sperm transport liquid was unrefrigerated for more than 5 days, please reach out to our client services team to get a replacement bottle. We will provide 1 complimentary bottle. If additional replacements are necessary, there is a $40 charge per bottle.

You may request a new bottle of sperm transport liquid by emailing clientservices@givelegacy.com or by calling us at 617-514-0901.

My sample was received by the lab, but it wasn't analyzed. Why?

Process & kit components

There are a few situations in which our lab will not proceed with an analysis:

If your kit is in transit for over 48 hours
If your kit arrives at our lab without a padlock security seal, or with a broken security seal
If your sample leaks in transit• If you used expired sperm transport liquid
If the lab finds a foreign substance in the sample
If you provided incorrect collection detailsIf your sample is rejected by our lab for any reason, you will be notified by email as soon as possible.

What if my test has a positive result for one or more STIs?

Sperm testing

STI testing

A positive result means that a specific bacteria, virus, or antibody was detected in your urine or blood samples. This indicates that you may have a current or prior infection, but it’s not a confirmed diagnosis.

You’ll receive next steps as part of the results for your at-home STI testing kit. If you’ve received a positive result(s), we strongly recommend contacting your doctor as soon as possible to diagnose and treat any infections. We also recommend contacting any recent sexual partners to let them know they should be tested. Depending on your state and local protocols and your results, the lab may be required to confidentially report your positive results to the Department of Health.

If you test positive for one or more STIs, you can still freeze your sperm. Your samples may be stored separately to prevent cross-contamination (although cross-contamination is extremely unlikely). We can't guarantee your chosen fertility clinic will allow you to store or use STI-positive semen samples in the future. We recommend discussing this with your desired clinic.

Do I need to complete an STI/STD panel prior to testing or freezing my sperm?

Sperm testing

STI testing

STI testing is not required by Legacy. However, STI screening prior to freezing sperm is required by many fertility clinics where you may want to transfer or use your sample in the future. To ensure your sample can be used at any fertility center or medical practice in the future, we strongly advise STI screening in the 6 months before freezing a sample. Our at-home STI test kit is included with For Tomorrow and Forever packages. If you're purchasing a semen analysis kit with cryogenic storage, we recommend ordering an at-home STI kit as well.

Which sperm freezing bundles include STI testing?

Sperm freezing

STI testing

An STI Test Kit is included in our For Tomorrow (5 year) and Forever (25 year) sperm freezing bundles. You may also purchase an STI Test Kit individually.

Will I be charged more for sperm freezing if I test positive for an STI?

Sperm freezing

STI testing

No, there is no additional cost for storing a sperm sample from an STI-positive person.

Does the STI kit ship with the sperm testing & freezing kit?

Sperm freezing

Sperm testing

STI testing

If you have ordered an STI Test Kit alongside a sperm testing & freezing kit, or if your sperm freezing bundle included an STI test kit, the STI Test Kit will be shipped separately from the sperm testing & freezing kit. It should arrive within 2–5 business days of your purchase via USPS.

Does Legacy’s test kit include all of the STI screening tests required for IUI and IVF?

Sperm testing

STI testing

Fertility treatment & third-party reproduction

In 49 of 50 states, the STI screening required by most fertility clinics is identical to the panel we offer: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, HIV 1 & 2, and syphilis.

In California, fertility clinics may also require screening for HTLV (human T-lymphotropic virus). Unfortunately, there is currently no at-home testing option for this virus. If you might store or use your sperm sample in California, we recommend talking to your doctor about in-person HTLV testing.

What are the contents of Legacy's STI test kit?

STI testing

Contents of Legacy’s STI Test Kit include: For urine collection A collapsible urine collection cup A pipette A urine collection tube (preservative liquid included) A large specimen bag For blood collection A blood collection device Two alcohol pads A sterile gauze pad Single use lancets Two adhesive bandages A small specimen bag with desiccant pack

Can I meet with a Legacy provider to review my STI testing results?

STI testing

No, we don't currently offer a results review call for STI Test Kits.

These results are for your review only and should not be considered a diagnosis. If you have questions about your results, please speak to your doctor.

Does Legacy’s STI test kit require a prescription?

STI testing

No. You can order an STI Test Kit or any sperm testing/freezing service from Legacy without a prescription from a doctor.

If I test positive for an STI, can Legacy offer me treatment?

STI testing

No. Because we’re a digital clinic, we can’t diagnose you with an illness or prescribe treatment. However, we will offer guidance on next steps with your results.

If I test positive for one or more STIs, can it affect the quality of my sperm, or the health of any embryos I create?

STI testing

It’s possible. Any infection may impact sperm quality. Learn more about how STIs can affect sperm health and fertility here.

Which STIs are tested in Legacy’s STI test kit?

STI testing

This test kit can detect the pathogens or antibodies associated with chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV 1 and 2, and syphilis.

How do I collect my STI sample?

STI testing

Legacy's at-home STI test is performed on blood and urine samples.

Your STI Test Kit will come with a urine container, and a blood card or container for you to collect your samples. The urine is used to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea, while the blood sample is used to test for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and syphilis. If you choose not to produce a blood sample, your results will say "Inconclusive" for the tests associated with blood. If you choose not to produce the urine sample, your results will say "Inconclusive" for tests associated with urine. Get step-by-step instructions on how to use your at-home Legacy STI Test Kit.

How long does it take to receive my STI kit?

STI testing

If you purchase an STI Test Kit, it will be mailed to you via USPS expedited shipping. Although 2 days is the average shipping time, this can be longer for rural communities and is dependent on USPS.

Does the STI test kit expire? How long do I have to use it?

STI testing

Please use your STI Test Kit within 30 days of receiving it. This ensures that the preservative liquid that keeps your sample stable remains effective.

I was possibly or definitely exposed to a sexually transmitted infection. How long should I wait before STI testing for the most accurate results?

STI testing

We can’t provide specific medical advice, and highly recommend you speak to your doctor if you know or believe you’ve been exposed to an STI. Patients may test positive for gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis within 5–14 days of infection, while HIV may take 3 months to be detectable with an STI test.

If I test positive for one or more STIs, should I test again in the future?

STI testing

You may want to retest after treating your infection. Talk to your doctor about the best next steps for you.

How long will it take to receive my STI results?

STI testing

You'll receive your STI Test Kit results 5–7 business days after your sample is received by the lab. These results can be viewed on your client dashboard. If you don't get your results within that timeframe, please contact clientservices@givelegacy.com.

If I have abnormal semen analysis results, can Legacy offer me treatment?

Sperm testing

No. Because we’re a digital clinic, we can’t diagnose you with a medical condition or prescribe treatment. However, we will offer guidance on next steps with your results.

If you'd like to get more information about your results, you can schedule a virtual appointment with one of our fertility specialists on your client dashboard, under the "Consultations" tab. Depending on what you have purchased, this appointment may require a small fee.

What is sperm DNA fragmentation analysis?

Sperm testing

A sperm DNA fragmentation test analyzes what percentage of your sperm have damaged DNA. This damage can contribute to infertility, pregnancy loss, and poor health outcomes for your future children.

Together with a semen analysis, sperm DNA fragmentation testing provides a more complete picture of your reproductive health and your chances of conception.

Sperm DNA fragmentation is measured as part of our Advanced Semen Analysis.

Do I need an additional kit to test for DNA fragmentation?

Sperm testing

No, we can assess sperm DNA fragmentation as part of the same kit that tests for the standard parameters of sperm health (count, concentration, motility, morphology, and volume).

I want to talk to a specialist about my results. How can I schedule an appointment?

Process & kit components

You can schedule a virtual appointment with one of our fertility specialists on your client dashboard, under the "Consultations" tab. Depending on what you have purchased, this appointment may require a small fee.

How important is sperm motility to my overall fertility?

Sperm testing

Experts recommend focusing on your total motile sperm count (TMSC) as the primary indicator of your ability to conceive. TMSC is based on your total sperm count and your motility. It’s possible to have a normal TMSC even if your results are below the normal range for a sub-factor like progressive motility.

If you have any questions about your results, you can schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists by logging into your client dashboard, emailing clientservices@givelegacy.com, or calling 617-514-0901.

Who should consider sperm testing?

Sperm testing

You should consider at-home sperm analysis if:

You’re trying to grow your family
You’re planning fertility treatment
You’re taking a medication that may affect fertility
You want to understand your health
You want to keep your family-building options open

Read more about why at-home sperm testing could be right for you.

I have tested multiple samples. Which one should I store?

Sperm testing

If you're unsure which sample(s) to freeze, we recommend booking a call with one of our fertility specialists for a consultation. You can do this in your client dashboard, under the "Consultations" tab. If you need assistance, please email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call us at 617-514-0901.

If I'm freezing more than one sample, do I need to do STI testing again?

STI testing

Sperm freezing

Not necessarily. Your STI results are valid for 12 months. If you’re freezing a sample and it’s been more than a year since you got your STI results, you should consider doing an updated STI test.

What kind of report do I get?

Process & kit components

Your Legacy semen analysis report is delivered to your personalized client dashboard. It includes more than just the numbers — it’ll tell you what those numbers really mean for you and your family-building plans.

Your dashboard includes:

Evidence-based recommendations for improving your fertility health, based on your results and lifestyle
Exclusive access to book a virtual appointment with one of our male fertility specialist medical providers, to discuss your results and possible next steps
A downloadable semen analysis summary to share with your doctor
Information about your frozen sperm, including their location and next steps to withdraw and transfer your sample

How does Legacy protect my frozen sperm sample?

Sperm freezing

Your sample is stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at -196ºC in long-term cryostorage facilities that specialize in storing frozen human tissue and genetic material. These cryostorage facilities are monitored 24 hours a day, are highly secure, and have multiple redundancy plans in place to prevent breaches of security or scientific integrity.

Legacy is the only sperm freezing service that uses multi-site storage to mitigate any risk. We will divide your vials into two batches and ship them to separate storage facilities using a cryogenic shipper that has been in business since the 1980s with a 100% success rate. This redundancy ensures your sperm will be safe and ready to use whenever you need.

Can you ship my frozen sperm sample internationally?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

Yes, our cryo-shipping service can ship samples internationally. Please note that pricing varies and can range between $3,000–$4,000. To get an exact quote for your shipment, the clinic address is required. This process can take 3–4 weeks, depending on location and regulations.

What is the process like to transfer or withdraw my sample from storage?

Process & kit components

It’s easy to withdraw a vial of your frozen sperm with Legacy. Once you’ve coordinated with your doctor or fertility clinic, request a vial withdrawal from your client dashboard, and we’ll coordinate with your healthcare provider or clinic lab to arrange shipping.

Please note:

Sperm can only be delivered to a medical practice, provider, or lab, not to a residential address.
The process of vial withdrawal takes about 2 weeks for domestic transfers and 3–4 weeks for international transfers. Please allow for the necessary time when planning your IUI or IVF procedure.
Frozen sperm is shipped using cryo-shippers (portable liquid nitrogen semen storage tanks) that maintain a temperature of -196ºC for the period necessary for transport.
The cost of shipping your frozen sperm sample within the US starts at $500 and depends on your location. International shipping fees are based on location and can cost $3,000 or more. If you’re a Forever client, one frozen sperm transfer within the US is included in your bundle.

What is the cost of withdrawing or transferring my frozen sperm?

Pricing & payment

The cost of shipping your frozen sperm sample within the US starts at $895 and depends on your location. International shipping fees are based on location and can cost $3,000 or more.

Contact clientservices@givelegacy.com for more information.

Can I upgrade my sperm freezing plan or add additional samples?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

Yes. If you tested or froze sperm with Legacy and you're interested in adding additional samples or a longer sperm storage plan, we're here to help. Please email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call 617-514-0901.

Will my sperm storage plan automatically renew?

Pricing & payment

Sperm freezing

Yes, your sperm storage plan will automatically renew. You can cancel any time by reaching out to clientservices@givelegacy.com or 617-514-0901.

If I freeze my sperm with Legacy, can it be donated to a friend or family member?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

No. Samples are intended for use with a sexually intimate partner only.

Can I use my frozen sperm for ICSI?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

Yes, you can use your frozen sperm for ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). In order to do so, you'll need to transfer your sample to a healthcare provider or clinic. That process is easy; you can get started with a few clicks in your client dashboard.

Can I use my frozen sperm for IUI?

Process & kit components

Sperm freezing

Yes, you can use your frozen sperm for IUI (intrauterine insemination). In order to do so, you'll need to transfer your sample to a healthcare provider or clinic. That process is easy; you can get started with a few clicks in your client dashboard.

Can I use my frozen sperm for IVF?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

Yes, you can use your frozen sperm for IVF (in vitro fertilization). In order to do so, you'll need to transfer your sample to a healthcare provider or clinic. That process is easy; you can get started with a few clicks in your client dashboard.

Where is my sample stored?

Process & kit components

Sperm freezing

What's the difference between samples and vials?

Process & kit components

One "sample" is the term for the product of a single ejaculation. One sample will be divided into 4 vials before freezing. Typically, 1 or more vials is used for each pregnancy attempt, depending on what kind of fertility treatment you are using (IVF vs. IUI) and your post-thaw total motile sperm count. When you want to use your sperm, you can withdraw just the number of vials you need for your treatment, and the rest can stay securely in storage.

It's important to note that you will be providing 1 sample per Legacy kit. If you would like to freeze more sperm, our sperm freezing bundles may be a good value for you. Get started.

How much sperm should I freeze?

Sperm freezing

Each Legacy kit collects one semen sample. At our lab, each sample is divided into 4 vials of sperm — that’s up to 4 tries to get pregnant utilizing IUI or IVF. Generally speaking, it takes 2–4 rounds of assisted reproductive treatment methods to create a pregnancy. Therefore, we recommend buying one kit for each child you hope to have in the future.

What are the success rates of frozen sperm?

Sperm freezing

Studies have found that frozen sperm produces pregnancy and live birth rates equal to fresh sperm. That is true regardless of the assisted reproductive technology — IUI, IVF, or ICSI — used. Read more about how sperm freezing affects sperm quality.

How long can sperm be frozen?

Sperm freezing

Research has found that sperm can essentially be frozen indefinitely as long as it’s preserved at an appropriate temperature. (Legacy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze your sample at -196ºC.) A National Institute of Health study reported that three different samples of frozen sperm had produced healthy pregnancies via assisted reproductive methods after 21, 28, and 40 years of freezing, respectively.

Who should consider sperm freezing?

Sperm freezing

You should consider sperm freezing and sperm storage for future use if:

You want to keep your options open for the future
You want to have the healthiest possible family
You’re about to start a medical treatment, such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy
You’re planning to have a vasectomy
You’re in a profession with a high risk of injury or chemical exposure, such as the military or firefightingLearn more about sperm freezing.

What happens if I die? Can my partner use my sperm?

Process & kit components

Your sperm sample belongs to you and only you unless otherwise specified. In the case of your death, your sample will be automatically destroyed.

If you'd like your spouse or partner to have access to your sample in the future, you must complete, sign, and notarize a bequeathment form. This will give you and your partner shared legal ownership of your sample, so they can store and withdraw it on their own in the future. Contact our client experience team at clientservices@givelegacy.com to request this form.

Will Legacy analyze or store my genetic information as part of the process of sperm testing and freezing?

Process & kit components

No, we don't analyze or store your genetic information as part of the sperm testing and freezing process.

What happens to my frozen samples if Legacy ceases to exist?

Process & kit components

We have taken steps to arrange for the protection of your sample(s) in the unlikely event that Give Legacy, Inc. ceases to exist.

Legacy partners with a specialized cryostorage provider to securely store your sample(s). If Legacy were to cease operations, you would have the option to continue storing your sample(s) with the storage partner without interruption. In such an event, you would receive detailed instructions on how to contact them directly. They will maintain your sample(s) under the same terms and conditions initially agreed upon with Legacy, ensuring your sperm's continued safety and security.

What is your privacy policy?

Process & kit components

Legacy was founded on the principle that privacy is a fundamental human right, and we make every attempt to anonymize and encrypt your data wherever possible. Througout the process of analysis, freezing, and storage, your sample will be identified only by your client ID and will not be tied to your name or other identifying information.

We are HIPAA-compliant, GDPR-compliant, and CCPA-compliant. Under the CCPA's broad definition of what it means to "sell" information, some forms of advertising, such as retargeted advertising, can be considered "sale." In the conventional sense, we do not and will not sell your data. You can opt out of providing information to advertisers at any time. You can learn more about your rights as a consumer under CCPA and GDPR via our privacy policy.

What happens if my sample is delayed in transit?

Process & kit components

While we understand the sensitivity of this process and take every precaution to prevent delays, sometimes shipping is out of our control. If your sample is delayed in transit, the transport media will preserve it for up to 48 hours.

Our lab will analyze your sample upon arrival, if it is viable. If we determine your sample was impacted by the delay in transit, we'll send you a complimentary kit so you can provide another sample.

How long does it take to receive my results?

Process & kit components

You can expect to see your results 1–2 business days after your kit has been received by our lab. To avoid delays, make sure you've completed all the necessary steps on your client dashboard, including signing the asset collection and storage agreement.

When your results are available in your client dashboard, you’ll receive an email letting you know.

Which testing/freezing options are right for me?

Trying to conceive

Let us help you! Reach out to our client advisors at 617-514-0901 or clientservices@givelegacy.com. They can answer your questions about our process and products and help you decide what package is best for you.

What is the minimum amount of sperm or semen needed for testing and freezing?

Sperm freezing

Sperm testing

We can perform an analysis so long as you can produce some semen. The analysis will tell you if your sample has a very low sperm count or no sperm present.

If there are no sperm present in your sample, your results will not be viable for freezing. But even if you have a very low sperm count, your sample is viable for freezing, and freezing may be especially important for those who have poor semen parameters.

For use in IUI, you need a post-thaw total motile sperm count of around 8–10 million. For use in IVF, there is no minimum amount of sperm. The latest techniques used in IVF — called ICSI — only need a single sperm to inject directly into the egg, so a sample with any motile sperm can be used multiple times.

Can I wait to purchase cryogenic storage after the analysis?

Sperm freezing

Process & kit components

If you do not choose a freezing plan prior to your analysis, your sample will automatically be discarded after analysis.

What if I have a question or issue about my FedEx pick-up?

Process & kit components

For questions about your scheduled pick-up with FedEx, visit fedex.com or call1-800-GOFEDEX. Have your shipping label and tracking number on-hand for questions.

Where can I drop off my kit for return shipping?

Process & kit components

You can drop off your kit at any participating FedEx drop-off location.

When you're ready to use your kit, you should register your kit by scanning the QR code on your shipping box with your smartphone camera. This will allow you to set up FedEx pick-up or find a drop-off location.

What do I do with the gel packs in my Legacy kit?

Process & kit components

The gel packs in your Legacy kit keep your bottle of transport liquid cool while in transit to you. You do not need to refreeze or refrigerate the gel packs that came with your kit. When you ship your sample back, keep the room-temperature gel packs in the kit as per the instructions. The insulating gel helps maintain a stable temperature inside the vault.

When should I produce my sample? Does it matter what time of day?

Process & kit components

You should abstain from ejaculation (masturbation or intercourse) for at least 2, but not more than 5 days before producing your sample for most accurate results. You should collect and ship your sample on the same day: Monday–Thursday, not Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, as our lab is not open on the weekend.

When you're ready to collect your sample, register your kit by scanning the QR code on your shipping box with your smartphone camera. This will allow you to set up carrier pick-up or find a drop-off location. If possible, produce your sample just before at-home pick-up/drop-off at a participating shipping location to reduce transit times.

What should I do before receiving the kit?

Process & kit components

Plan ahead for your sample collection day. Abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days before producing your sample. (For optimal results, we typically recommend abstaining for 3 days.) Keep in mind that you should produce and ship your sample Monday–Thursday.

If you're considering freezing your sample, we recommend you complete an sexually transmitted infection screening before producing and freezing your sample. Although this is not a legal requirement, some providers that perform assisted reproductive technologies like IVF require this testing, so completing it now gives you more options for using your frozen sperm later on. Tests we recommend include: Hep B Ab, Hep C Ab, HTLV Ab, HIV Ab, CMV Ab, and syphilis (RPR).

Can I only produce my sample through masturbation?

Process & kit components

Yes, it is recommended that you only produce your sample through masturbation. Avoid using any external aids, like lubricants, saliva, or condoms with spermicide, as these can contaminate or damage your sperm sample. If you need special guidance for religious or medical reasons, please email clientservices@givelegacy.com or call us at 617-514-0901 so we can further assist you.

Do I need to be home to receive the kit?

Process & kit components

That’s not necessary. The kit is insulated and includes gel cool packs to keep the sperm transport liquid chilled until you open it. The sperm transport liquid can stay at room temperature for 5 days without affecting its efficacy.

You should refrigerate the sperm transport liquid when you receive the kit. Once refrigerated, the transport liquid can be used until the expiration date listed on the bottle.

If your transport liquid was at room temperature for more than 5 days after it was delivered, or if your bottle of transport liquid has expired, please reach out to our client experience team to get a replacement bottle. We will provide 1 complimentary bottle. If additional replacements are necessary, there is a $40 charge per bottle. You may request a new bottle of sperm transport liquid by emailing clientservices@givelegacy.com, or by calling us at 617-514-0901.

What is the sperm transport liquid?

Process & kit components

The transport liquid is an FDA-approved, clinically tested buffer media that extends the life of sperm during shipping. The media contains carbohydrates — nutrition for sperm — plus an antibiotic to reduce bacterial growth and a buffer ingredient to keep pH stable. This allows us to analyze and freeze your sperm after overnight shipping.

The sperm transport liquid is washed off when the sample arrives at the lab, and it will not negatively affect sperm quality. It was pioneered by one of our advisors, Dr. Gail Prins, who published studies on the use of buffer media as a protectant for human spermatozoa as early as the 1980s.

Do I need to have a doctor’s referral to order sperm testing or freezing?

Process & kit components

You don’t need a doctor’s referral to purchase a Legacy kit or cryostorage plan. You may need a referral and/or a prior authorization to get insurance or Veterans' benefits coverage for sperm testing or freezing.

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