The path to parenthood through surrogacy often begins with deeply personal decisions—and sometimes, complex medical ones. If you’re an intended parent exploring your fertility options, you may have come across the term sperm microchip or “sperm selection via microfluidics.” While it might sound like science fiction, it’s very real—and increasingly promising.
Whether you’re dealing with male-factor infertility or simply seeking the most advanced reproductive options, understanding sperm microchip procedures can empower you to make informed decisions.
What Is a Sperm Microchip?
A sperm microchip is a small, lab-developed device—typically made of biocompatible silicone or plastic—that uses microfluidic channels to filter and select sperm based on their health, motility, and overall quality.
In simpler terms: this technology helps embryologists pick out the best sperm for fertilization, particularly in procedures like IVF (in vitro fertilization) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection).
The microchip mimics conditions similar to the female reproductive tract, allowing only the healthiest sperm—those with the best movement and lowest DNA fragmentation—to pass through the channels. It’s a much gentler and more precise alternative to older centrifuge-based sperm preparation techniques.
Why Use a Sperm Microchip?
Traditional sperm selection methods involve spinning samples at high speeds to isolate motile sperm. While effective, these techniques can inadvertently damage DNA or cause oxidative stress—especially in already-fragile samples.
A sperm microchip offers several advantages:
- Better DNA integrity: It helps reduce sperm DNA fragmentation, which can impact embryo quality.
- Higher fertilization potential: Selected sperm are more likely to result in successful fertilization and embryo development.
- Non-invasive: It doesn’t expose sperm to harsh chemicals or forces.
- Ideal for male-factor infertility: Particularly helpful in cases involving low motility, morphology issues, or unexplained infertility.
How Common Is This Procedure?
While sperm microchip technology isn’t yet mainstream in every fertility clinic, its use is growing rapidly, especially in leading IVF centers and research-forward clinics.
- Many clinics offer it as an add-on service during IVF cycles.
- It’s most frequently recommended in cases of male-factor infertility, recurrent IVF failure, or when using previously cryopreserved sperm.
- Surrogacy arrangements that rely on donor eggs incorporate this technology to optimize fertilization outcomes.
* Sperm microchip selection is available at our Be Parent collaborative clinics – please ask if necessary or advisable based on your medical history.
When Might Intended Parents Consider It?
As an intended parent, your unique family-building journey involves IVF and potentially embryo creation. You may consider sperm microchip technology if:
- You or your partner have abnormal semen parameters (low motility, morphology, or count).
- You’ve experienced previous failed IVF cycles or poor embryo development.
- You’re using donor eggs and want to optimize your side of the genetic equation.
- You want to take advantage of emerging technologies for the best possible outcomes.
This technique is one more tool in the growing field of assisted reproductive technology (ART), designed to improve embryo quality and the chances of a successful pregnancy.
What’s the Process Like?
The sperm microchip process is relatively straightforward and typically takes place behind the scenes in the IVF lab:
- Sperm collection: A semen sample is collected as usual.
- Microchip loading: The sample is placed in the microchip device, which contains microfluidic channels that simulate the natural path sperm take in the body.
- Selection process: Over the course of 30–45 minutes, only the healthiest and most motile sperm reach the collection chamber.
- Fertilization: The selected sperm are then used for fertilization in IVF or ICSI procedures.
The entire process is painless for the patient and designed to improve lab outcomes—not add complexity or burden.
What Does the Research Say?
Clinical studies are still ongoing, but early results are promising:
- Some studies show that sperm selected via microfluidics have lower DNA fragmentation, a known factor in failed IVF or early miscarriage.
- Improved embryo quality and blastocyst formation rates have been reported in some trials.
- While not a guarantee, sperm microchip use has been associated with higher pregnancy rates in certain clinical scenarios.
Like many fertility technologies, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution—but it may be a valuable option depending on your circumstances.
For intended parents navigating the world of assisted reproduction and surrogacy, each piece of the puzzle matters—and that includes sperm quality. If male-factor infertility is part of your journey—or if you’re simply interested in the most advanced fertility tools available—it’s worth discussing this option with your journey coordinator. Small improvements in the lab can lead to big differences in the outcome.
