MicroSort FAQ
Get answers to your frequently asked questions
What is MicroSort?
MicroSort is a scientific method for helping couples have a child of a specific gender.
What are my chances of getting the desired gender?
Your odds are good. Statistics vary by gender, so take a look at our success rates for details.
Am I qualified to pursue MicroSort?
If you want to use MicroSort to balance your family or lower your child’s risk for X-linked disorders, you may qualify.
> Review our qualification guidelines
What are the fees associated with MicroSort?
MicroSort is surprisingly affordable. Prices vary by location.
How do I begin the MicroSort process?
Your first step is to meet with a participating provider.
Where is the process available?
Currently, the sorting process only is available in select locations.
> Locate a lab and a participating provider
Are there any risks associated with using this process?
Since MicroSort technology is so new , only limited information is available on pregnancy rate, risks, or outcome based on a clinical trial in the United States. For further information regarding theoretical risk, refer to the discussion and other sections in our publications list.
Will freezing damage sperm?
Frozen sperm has been used successfully for insemination and pregnancy attainment for many years. Cryoprotectants are normally added to the semen sample to protect the cells during the freezing process. However, freezing and thawing does reduce the number of viable sperm cells available for insemination.
The combination of cryopreservation and MicroSort sperm separation is currently best utilized with IVF and ICSI procedures. The feasibility of using frozen sorted sperm for IUI is currently unknown.
What precautions are taken to prevent switching our sperm sample with someone else's?
We take every precaution to keep your sample safe. When received, your sample is assigned and labeled with a unique identification number. This ID number is maintained throughout the process to assure accurate identification and tracking of each specimen.
Is it possible that my husband naturally has an unequal proportion of X- and Y-bearing sperm cells?
We have performed more than 5,000 analyses of X- and Y-bearing sperm cells prior to sorting and all results have been very close to 50:50. This seems true even when there’s a family history of mostly female or male offspring.
Do you have a waiting list?
Due to limited capacity, there may be a waiting list depending on when you desire to initiate a MicroSort cycle. However, we do our best to minimize delays. We recommend scheduling an appointment several months in advance of the time you want to use MicroSort. If a particular month's schedule is full, we’ll schedule you for the next available opening.
Is MicroSort ethical?
Ethical questions are personal. It’s up to you to decide whether the MicroSort process fits within your own ethical guidelines.
As you consider your personal ethics, keep in mind that MicroSort:
• Is a preconception gender selection technology
• Does not involve the creation of embryos for testing and selection
• Is performed to sperm prior to conception
All patients are encouraged to carry their pregnancy to term, regardless of the gender outcome.
Is MicroSort available in the United States?
MicroSort is not for sale in the United States. In the United States, MicroSort is available only to qualified participants through a clinical trial.