Sperm washing is a laboratory technique used to separate actively motile, healthy sperm from seminal fluid, debris, dead cells, and prostaglandins before use in IUI, IVF, or ICSI. Common methods include density-gradient centrifugation and swim-up preparation. Washing also removes substances that could cause uterine cramping if placed directly into the uterus unprocessed. The embryology laboratory reports the concentration and motility of the sample after washing, which helps the fertility team judge whether IUI is a reasonable option for that cycle or whether IVF/ICSI would be more suitable. Sperm washing is also used to reduce infection risk when processing samples from men with certain blood-borne infections, following ICMR and NACO-aligned laboratory protocols.
Also known as: semen washing, sperm preparation, washed sperm
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.