Ovum, Sperm & Embryo Freezing

Embryo freezing, also known as embryo cryopreservation, is a method of freezing and storing embryos for later use. An embryo is a fertilized egg that has been fertilized by sperm. This procedure is intended to assist people with fertility and reproduction.

Embryo freezing is frequently performed following fertility treatments. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection are two examples (of ICSI). These procedures fertilize eggs with sperm and occasionally result in extra embryos. If you have extra embryos, you can freeze them and use them later if you:

• After an egg has been fertilized, postpone or cancel implantation into your uterus.
• Want to postpone IVF until later.
• Want a backup plan in case the first round of fertility treatment fails.
• Rather than destroying unused embryos, choose to donate them to other people trying to conceive or to researchers.

Embryo freezing is also used to preserve fertility. A woman or person designated female at birth with cancer, for example, may want to save fertilized eggs before beginning chemotherapy or radiation therapy if the treatment may affect their ability to become pregnant. A transgender man may also freeze eggs or embryos before beginning hormone therapy or undergoing gender affirmation surgery.

A fertilized egg is frozen during embryo cryopreservation. Fertility programs may also provide egg freezing, which is the freezing of unfertilized eggs. The choice to freeze embryos is a personal one. The costs of fertility treatments vary greatly, and medical insurance may not cover them. Other factors to consider include your objectives, costs, ethical issues, and your partner's preferences.

Embryos can be harmed by freezing. Thawing them later can also be harmful. If multiple embryos are frozen, some or all of them may not survive. During your consultation, your healthcare provider will discuss whether your embryos are suitable for freezing, thawing, and implantation.