Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation is the process of freezing extra embryos and/or sperm for potential future use after and IVF cycle. Often assisted reproductive techniques (ART) generate a number of embryos that exceed the number of those required for treatment. Depending upon the quality of the embryos, they can be frozen and placed in storage to be used at a future date.

Statistics have shown no increase in birth defects or developmental abnormalities associated with using cryopreserved embryos.

The most important reason for freezing embryos is so that you will have them available if they are needed after a failed IVF cycle or after a pregnancy should you decide to have more children.

In our laboratory cryopreservation is performed using the latest technique called rapid vitrification. The studies have shown that rapid vitrification has the highest success in thawing and transfer of viable embryos.

There currently is new debate about how long an embryo can be frozen and remain viable. Right now, the belief is that there is no time limit.