On the occasion of Father’s Day, Dr. Lina A. Evgeni, Reproductive Biologist and Director of the Cryogonia Sperm Cryopreservation Bank, was a guest of Elli Spyropoulou on Alpha Radio 98.9, discussing a side of fertility that rarely receives the attention it deserves.

A Percentage That Shifts the Conversation
Fertility is typically discussed as a female issue. Dr. Evgeni put things into perspective: half of the cases facing reproductive difficulties involve the male factor — a reality that is rarely reflected in the way we talk about it.

What Can a Young Man Do Early On?
An initial check at 18-20: A simple semen analysis right after reaching adulthood can reveal issues that are much easier to resolve at a young age.

Mind your habits: Smoking, alcohol, anabolic steroids, and continuous exposure to heat or radiation compromise sperm quality.

Freezing as an insurance policy: With no special preparatory treatment and a cost of approximately €200 per year, sperm cryopreservation lasts for as long as the man wishes.

Age Matters for Men Too
Many believe that a man can father a child at any age without consequences. Dr. Evgeni clarifies: from ages 35-40 onwards, fertility declines and the likelihood of complications increases, such as miscarriages or a higher risk of genetic abnormalities and conditions like autism in the child. An early check remains the most essential investment for the future.

Sperm Donors: Only 8% of Applicants
At Cryogonia, only 8% of those who express interest are ultimately accepted into the donation program, following a three-generation medical history screening, a psychological evaluation, and comprehensive semen and blood testing. As a benefit, selected donors receive a free, full fertility assessment and the opportunity to safeguard their own genetic material for future personal use.

Why Greece Stands Out
Referring to recent international incidents, such as a high-profile donor case in Denmark, Dr. Evgeni explained that the Greek framework — featuring a central registry and strict oversight — provides a level of safety that very few countries possess, a factor that attracts couples from all over the world to Greece.

See and Hear More
Get a glimpse of the discussion:

Listen to the full interview on SoundCloud