Sperm Banking
Men choose to bank their sperm for an increasing variety of reasons that may affect future sperm production. These broadly include undergoing surgery or medical/hormonal treatment or putting off fatherhood until later in life. Whatever your reason for cryobanking, Maze offers a full line of services to collect, freeze, and store sperm. Maze specializes in Sexual Health for patients in Westchester, New York City NYC, Connecticut, and New Jersey.
Sperm Banking at Maze: Future-Proof Your Fertility
Men bank sperm for many reasons—before chemotherapy or radiation, ahead of prostate or pelvic surgery, prior to starting testosterone therapy, during gender-affirming care, because of hazardous workplace exposures, or simply to “pause the clock” while delaying fatherhood. Maze Men’s Health delivers physician-led cryobanking for Westchester, NYC, Connecticut, and New Jersey, directed by Michael A. Werner, MD (board-certified urologist; fellowship-trained in male infertility). We combine precise semen analysis, advanced processing for ultra-low counts, state-of-the-art freezing, and dual-site, 24/7 monitored storage. Just as important, we plan forward: every vial is optimized for how it will be used later in IUI or IVF/ICSI so your stored sperm translate into real family-building options.
What Sperm Banking Involves—and Our Quality Controls
A banking visit starts with a comprehensive semen analysis to establish baseline volume, concentration, motility, forward progression, and morphology. We then add a medical-grade cryoprotectant, aliquot the sample into multiple uniquely labeled vials, freeze gradually to –196°F, and complete a “test thaw” after 24–48 hours. This test thaw quantifies post-thaw motility and forward progression so your reproductive endocrinologist knows exactly what each vial can support. If quality is borderline for insemination, we’ll tailor vial sizes and counts toward IVF/ICSI, where a single motile sperm per egg can be enough. When routine analysis shows extremely low or fluctuating counts, we can escalate to Extended Sperm Search & Microfreeze (ESSM)—a Maze-exclusive workflow that spends hours scanning the entire specimen in micro-droplets and cryopreserves individually isolated motile sperm on specialized devices for higher thaw survival and easier identification on the day of use.
Why Banking at Maze Is Different
Your banking is physician-directed from end to end. Dr. Werner reviews results in real time, guides how many vials to create per specimen, and later coordinates which vials to release and how to use them with your OB/GYN or IVF center. For safety, we routinely split inventory across two separate tanks at two different locations and continuously monitor temperature with failsafe alarms, battery backup, and generator power. For men who struggle to produce on site, we make same-day home collection workable with strict chain-of-custody labeling and body-temperature transport protocols; if stress or erectile issues are a barrier, we can discuss short-acting ED medications when medically appropriate, or use non-masturbatory collection approaches, including special non-spermicidal condoms, semen retrieval after retrograde ejaculation, or surgical retrieval coordinated with your IVF team. If you have infectious diseases such as hepatitis B or C, we store in dedicated, segregated tanks while preserving your access to future treatment.
Who Should Seriously Consider Banking
Oncology patients should bank before chemo or radiation whenever possible because therapies can suppress or eliminate spermatogenesis and may transiently increase DNA damage in sperm produced during and shortly after treatment.
Men starting testosterone replacement therapy should bank first since exogenous testosterone suppresses intratesticular testosterone and collapses sperm production; alternatives like clomiphene or HCG can preserve fertility, but if you ultimately transition to TRT, previously banked sperm safeguard your options. Trans women should bank prior to feminizing hormones; if hormones have already started, we may still find usable sperm in the ejaculate or testes with ESSM and, if required, minimally invasive retrieval. Men scheduled for vasectomy, prostate procedures, hernia or hydrocele repair, or colorectal/pelvic surgery should bank in advance to avoid ejaculatory or ductal-obstruction-related infertility. If your job involves chronic heat or toxins—long-haul driving, commercial baking, culinary work near ovens, radiation or industrial chemical exposure—proactive banking is prudent. Men with progressive neurologic conditions, diabetes-related autonomic dysfunction, or medications that impair ejaculation should bank early while emission and ejaculation are reliable. If your current semen parameters are very low or highly variable, banking multiple times, with ESSM as needed, prevents canceled IUI/IVF cycles later.
Directed Donor, LGBTQ+ Family Building, and Legal Readiness
We are licensed for designated (directed) donor banking in New York State, which means we can legally bank and quarantine sperm from known donors following the required infectious-disease testing, medical history, genetic screening, and six-month re-test. This pathway supports lesbian couples choosing a known donor, single parents by choice, and gay men preparing for IVF with donor eggs and gestational carriers. During intake we’ll document legal consent and future disposition preferences for stored specimens, including instructions for use in the event of death, disability, divorce, or partnership changes, and we coordinate with your clinic’s legal and ethical requirements so you avoid delays when it’s time to use vials.
About Dr. Werner and Maze
About Dr. Werner
About Maze
Maze facility
Areas served
Patient Stories
Our deepest thanks for your support in our fertility journey
We want to express our deepest thanks for your support in our fertility journey.
We are still very much in the throes of our family building story, but as we reflect back on the last year, the moment we stepped into your office is one of our biggest turning points. We were terrified, and your guidance, reassurance, and compassion during a time of extreme uncertainty for us meant more than words can express. That moment when you let us know that having biological children would be a possibility for us will hold a special place in our hearts for the rest of our lives.
Your ability to create an atmosphere of comfort and understanding sets a benchmark in patient care that is truly unparalleled.
L, NY
I deeply appreciate the efforts you and your staff have made...
Maze has created an experience of gaining insight and comfort with and acceptance of, my post surgical sexual self.
Based on my experience with Maze, I would highly recommend you, your clinicians and staff, to others — your approach and quality of concern and support (and determination!) have been hugely valuable.
A, NJ
I have been a patient for almost 10 years...
If you want to go to an office where everyone there is encouraging, helpful, and sincere then Dr. Werner and staff is the place for you. I have been a patient for almost 10 years and never did I think it was about money for his operation.
They have always gave me clear information and guided me through any procedure or process I was working through. I would recommend this office to anyone that needs help!
SR, NY, 49
I could not recommend Dr. Werner and his great team more highly!
I have been seeing Dr. Werner and his fine staff for a few years now and simply put-its the best medical care I’ve ever experienced. Due in large part to the guidance and healthcare I’ve experienced here I feel like the best version of myself at age 41. I could not recommend this Dr. Werner and his great team more highly! Thank you all for what you do!!
JC, NY, Age 41
I Wish I Could Give Them More Stars!!
This is an amazing place!!!! Not only is Dr. Werner great, but the entire staff is incredible. They have completely changed my life for the better. Only wish I had known about them sooner. I wish I could give more stars!!!
David, NY, Age 39
I am in great, knowledgeable, and experienced hands.
Excellent care and follow up by Dr. Werner and Nick. As a doctor myself, I feel I am in great, knowledgeable, and experienced hands. A+
A, NY, Age 44
To state that Dr. Werner saved my life, would be an understatement!
I have been under his care for almost a decade during which he guided me through successful Peyronies treatment, a penile fracture, erectile dysfunction, and in the end, a life beyond my wildest dreams. Dr. Werner, Nick, Paul, Rima, and his entire staff, have spent so much time investing in my physical health, in an effort to not only solve medical problems, but to maximize my overall quality of life.
Dr. Werner is beyond a great practitioner. He’s a great man. His balance of exemplary knowledge, comprehensive treatment, humor, and individualized patient care, has far exceeded any expectation that I have ever had for a doctor. This is to say that Dr. Werner has always treated me as a human being, first. Therefore, his understanding of the person whom he treats, in addition to only the most sound scientific research, makes his work life-altering.
Over the past 10 years, I have continually peppered his staff with questions and concerns, as I have always felt the need to stay educated. Backed by tremendous patience and humility, Dr. Werner has never made me feel like a number. I feel grateful that I found his office, years ago. To that end, I no longer consider him, Nick, or Paul, mere practitioners, but dear friends. I owe much, if not all of my progress over the last few years, to MAZE MENS HEALTH.
Alix B, NJ, Age 51
Dr. Werner and team are knowledgeable, confident and really care about you as an individual!
My first impressions of Dr. Werner: smart, caring, confident, warm. He really listened to me and demonstrated a high level of confidence that he could help me. He understood the impact my symptoms were having on my life and didn’t minimize them. Paul (therapist) and Kristy (exercise physiologist) were also professional and inspired both calm and confidence.
I was initially referred to Dr. Werner for ED and began using a combination of medication and penile injections. Once Dr. Werner found the right dose for me, I was able to get the best erection I had had in over six months. I later developed Peyronie’s Disease as well. I was fortunate that Dr. Werner had significant experience treating Peyronie’s Disease, as he was able to assess me and recommend Xiaflex injections. While treating my Peyronie’s, Dr. Werner also suggested I begin Shockwave Therapy to further help my ED. Since completing both treatments, not only has my Peyronie’s seen dramatic improvement, but my ability to get an erection has improved 95%!
I feel very positive about my experience with Dr. Werner and Maze. These are good people and they are good at what they do. They understand the problem, treat you with respect and take your concerns seriously. I can’t imagine there’s any sexual health issue Dr. Werner would not be able to help you with! If you do consider coming to Maze, it’s important to stick with it and remember that these are medical issues and results do not happen overnight. I was incredibly nervous when I came in for my first appointment, but Dr. Werner has created an environment and a team at Maze that will immediately put you at ease.
Additionally, you and your partner must be on the same page since treatment is a process and requires both patience and good communication. I’m happy to say my wife and I have seen tremendous benefits, becoming even more communicative and closer as a couple throughout this process. Two years ago, I never would have believed coming in for treatment would have changed our relationship so positively.
D, PA, Age 69
Bottom line is that Dr. Werner and all the staff were wonderful!
Very impressive and professional medical practice. Top staff, rigorous process, timely service and excellent follow-up. There is also a positive and vibrant demeanor projected by everyone in the office that I have not seen in other places. There is extensive testing that can get pricey for out of network patients, but cannot argue with the treatment process, quality and results. Bottom line is that Dr. Werner and all the staff are wonderful!
AP, NY, Age 63
The word I would use for Dr. Werner is “thorough."
In 2009, I came to see Dr. Werner for erectile dysfunction, but I was having symptoms for ten years before I got here! I had seen many other urologists, but they just couldn’t figure it out. When I found Dr. Werner, all that changed.
I was very impressed with the caring and knowledge he possesses. He really went out of his way to find out everything that was a piece of my issues. The word I would use for Dr. Werner is “thorough.”
He discovered that I had low testosterone as well as erectile dysfunction. Once I started treatment he had me come in every 4-6 months to check my numbers and regulate me. Together, we found the right treatment cocktail, and my issues were resolved within 4-6 weeks!*
If you ever feel, at any point in your life, that there is a problem, seek help immediately!
A, NY, Age 47
Dr. Werner combines thoroughness with panache.
Dr. Werner combines thoroughness with panache. I feel like his care is totally comprehensive and I feel total confidence that no details will be missed. I have very high standards and he more than surpassed them all.
R, NY, Age 59
Dr. Werner helped us start a family. We will always be extremely thankful.
How are you, Bat Sheva, and Dr. Werner? We hope all of you are doing well and I’m sure helping people move towards sexual wholeness.
We’re doing really well. Our little miracle from God, Anna Joy, is almost 5 months old now!! She is rolling over, babbles a lot, and has the cutest toothless smile. Stan and I absolutely adore her and marvel every day that God gave us this amazing little girl to take care of. We’re so blessed.
We will never forget how Dr. Bat Sheva, and Dr. Werner played such a vital role in our journey towards parenthood. We will always be extremely thankful to God for you.
Please send our love to them.
S & J, NJ
Most compassionate, friendly doctor.
I have been a patient of Dr. Werner’s for over 21 years and he is the most compassionate, friendly doctor I have ever met.
I look for his advice even outside of his specialty. The same can be said for Nick and all of the staff at Maze.
A, NY, Age 59
I followed instructions to rest the first two days and had NO pain.
After many conversations with my girlfriend, I decided to take responsibility for our birth control. As a 46 year old divorced medical professional with 4 children and in a long term committed relationship, this was the right decision. I was scared to death to have a vasectomy and in fact I am even afraid of needles for blood work. I made my appointment because I knew that if I didn’t set it up I wouldn’t go through with it.
I was given an appointment within a few days. The office staff was amazing and the surgical coordinator was so helpful with all of my questions. My consult with Dr. Werner could not have been any better. He is so personable and nice, and put my mind at ease promising that he would adjust the medications for me because he could tell how anxious I was.
I then came back a few days later for my pre screening. As I mentioned I am petrified of blood draws. The phlebotomist and medical tech, Ben, drew my blood and I didn’t even feel it. On the day of the procedure I took the medications as prescribed and barely felt or remember a thing. I followed the instructions to rest the first two days and had NO pain! I can honestly say that I would recommend Dr. Werner and his staff to anyone who is ready to have a vasectomy and take on the responsibility of birth control in their relationship.
MO, Age 46
Dr. Werner and his staff are absolutely the best.
Dr. Werner and his staff are absolutely the best. I have been a patient for 2 years and I actually enjoy my appointments because everyone is so nice and knowledgeable. I had a vasectomy and it was an easy procedure at this office with no pain and a very quick recovery. I have no problem recommending to other men that they get this procedure if they have finished having children.
Maze offers other good quality services, such as counseling, fitness testing, testosterone treatment, and sperm banking.
If you’re hesitant about vasectomy procedures or seeking treatment for male issues, I can say that this office makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Not once did I ever feel awkward. Professional and caring, the way a doctor’s office should be.
BR, NY, Age 52
I am in disbelief that I was symptom free all weekend.
I’m just writing in to thank you for such a seamless, painless, and gratifying vasectomy experience last Friday. I am in disbelief that I was symptom free all weekend and cannot visually see any evidence of the procedure! How is this possible???
R, NYC, Age 48
I felt no pain during or after the procedure!
I went to Maze Men’s Health because I was interested in the needle-less and scalpel-less technique used by Dr. Werner. The staff was great. Very friendly and professional. You felt comfortable and welcome from the moment you stepped inside the office door. Dr. Werner is great. Photos and diagrams were used to thoroughly explain the procedure. And he is an engaging man so you feel he is going to do the best job possible. He treated me as if I were a family friend. The prep for the procedure was quick and the actual operation lasted no more than 20 minutes. During that time Dr. Werner was cracking jokes, we were having a great conversation and the next thing I knew he was finished. I felt no pain during or after the procedure. This is written on day 2 and I have no pain or swelling in the area. I HIGHLY recommend Maze for anyone thinking about a vasectomy or any other services that they provide. Thanks Dr. Werner!!!
A, CT, Age 52
The entire experience was stress-free....and painless.
Before I moved to Westchester, I had decided to undergo a traditional vasectomy but chickened-out at the last minute. Once I moved, I was traveling on the Metro North train and noticed an ad for the no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy at Maze Men’s Health. I immediately called to find out more information.
From the moment I met Dr. Werner, he made me feel completely at ease in what could potentially have been a very high anxiety situation. Although I was worried about the pain, there was absolutely no pain at all!
I couldn’t believe how easy the process was. From the first call through follow-up after the procedure, the entire experience was stress-free. I would definitely recommend Dr. Werner to anyone considering a vasectomy.
V, NY, Age 43
Dr. Werner and the entire Maze staff was FANTASTIC.
My experience with Dr. Werner and the entire Maze staff was fantastic. From the front desk, to billing, to the clinical staff and right up to Dr. Werner himself, my experience has been excellent. From consultation, pre-op, procedure and post visits everyone has been tremendously professional and great to work with. Today I’m 1000% healed up and extremely happy I came to see Dr. Werner in the first place.
M, NY, Age 38
Frequently Asked Questions
Abstinence for about 48 hours before collection standardizes results; longer gaps may raise counts but often lower motility, while very short gaps can do the reverse. If you must collect at home, aim to deliver within an hour at body temperature; a shirt pocket under a jacket is ideal, never refrigerate or heat. If performance anxiety is an issue, we can arrange repeat appointments, allow partner-assisted collection in private rooms, discuss short-acting ED medication if safe, or use specialized condoms during intercourse. If you have retrograde ejaculation, we can alkalinize and collect post-ejaculatory urine and still salvage motile sperm. If you’re hospitalized before therapy, we can coordinate urgent bedside banking, courier transport, and immediate freezing so you don’t miss your window.
How Many Vials to Bank—and How You’ll Use Them
The number depends on post-thaw motile counts and your likely treatment path. If vials consistently thaw with counts suitable for IUI, plan multiple vials for several cycles and keep some in reserve for IVF. If post-thaw numbers are very low, plan for IVF/ICSI, where each mature egg requires only one motile sperm; in that scenario, about ten vials is often sufficient for multiple IVF cycles. Men with highly variable output should bank across several days or weeks to capture stronger days, and we’ll size vials to match how your fertility team intends to use them. When surgical retrieval is necessary—MESA, micro-TESE, or our GN-SEM approach that combines sperm mapping with ESSM—we freeze surplus sperm for future cycles to avoid repeat procedures.
Storage, Monitoring, Privacy, and Access
Every vial carries six unique identifiers and is tracked in redundant electronic logs with strict chain of custody. We store specimens in two locations by default to mitigate rare but catastrophic risks, and all tanks are monitored continuously with real-time alerts and on-call staff coverage. Your records and results are communicated securely to you and, with your authorization, to your treating physicians. We are HIPAA-compliant and provide medical summaries your IVF lab will need to design an insemination or IVF protocol. When you’re ready to use vials, we coordinate shipping with validated dry shippers or arrange pickup, and we can time releases precisely with your partner’s IUI window or IVF retrieval to use fresh-thawed sperm at peak viability.
Risks, Limits, and How We Mitigate Them
No lab can guarantee future pregnancy with cryopreserved sperm; outcomes depend on female-factor fertility, embryo quality, and clinical variables. A minority of specimens show lower-than-expected post-thaw motility; our test-thaw forecasting and vial-sizing strategy are designed to prevent last-minute surprises. Some men, especially after gonadotoxic therapy, produce extremely low numbers; in those cases we rely on ESSM and, when indicated, minimally invasive retrieval to secure enough motile sperm for ICSI. Very rarely, illness or medication changes make future ejaculation impossible; banking now is the insurance policy you control.
How to Get Started—Including Urgent Cases
If you need urgent same-week banking before treatment, call us and we’ll prioritize you, including weekend and evening appointments when feasible. A phone consult reviews your history, medications, timeline, and consent, and we’ll arrange the fastest path to analysis, freezing, and split-site storage. For out-of-area patients, we can complete the consult and banking within two days and review results by phone, including a clear plan for IUI or IVF/ICSI use.