HIV Parenting Choices
Planning parenthood – and especially fertility challenges - can be an emotionally taxing journey for many couples. Understanding the treatment options available at fertility clinics is essential for making informed decisions. This blog series aims to provide a comprehensive overview of common fertility treatments, what to expect, and tips for navigating the process.
People living with HIV should not limit their ways to become a parent. There are several choices and options available for people living with HIV and their families to assist in family planning decisions. HIV is just one factor to consider when starting a family. With the proper support, knowledge, and care, people living with HIV can be parents. One option that many people have heard about – but don’t totally understand – is sperm washing.
Understanding sperm washing
This is a laboratory technique (i.e., it happens in a lab) to separate healthy sperm cells from the fluid that carries the sperm (official name—seminal fluid). Sperm washing is a standard part of fertility care. It is not just to prevent the transmission of HIV; it also removes the virus when HIV is present.
The goal of sperm washing for a person living with HIV is to ensure that the washed sperm used is free of HIV. This used to be the recommendation for sero-different couples to make conception safer through procedures like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Steps of sperm washing
It involves collecting a semen sample, checking it, and preparing it for washing. This is called a semen collection. The sample is placed in a centrifuge (a machine in the lab), spinning at high speeds to separate sperm cells from other fluids and cells, including those that may contain HIV.
The sperm is further filtered to isolate motile (moving) sperm cells from non-viable ones. Since HIV is typically found in seminal fluid, not within sperm cells, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced.
Who needs sperm washing?
As a person living with HIV on Antiretroviral therapy (ART) with an undetectable viral load, sperm washing is not recommended, but it might still be preferred if they are trying to conceive with an HIV-negative person.
Key considerations and challenges for the sperm washing procedure include:
The cost: The cost will be different depending on where you live and what clinic you access.
Accessibility: Not all fertility clinics offer care to people living with HIV.
Social stigma: Unfortunately, you may also face stress related to fertility. Think about what emotional support you will have before considering accessing fertility care.
Sperm washing is an excellent option for people living with HIV who want to expand their families and want to know their options.
Couples or individuals might choose sperm washing as it enhances the chance of conception by isolating the most motile and healthy sperm. It also assists in selecting the best quality sperm for use in case of low sperm count.
If you or someone you know wants to learn more about sperm washing, consult a fertility specialist to help explore options and set the foundation for a healthy, happy family.
Contact us if you want to learn more about fertility clinics that might be available to support you.
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