Embryo Freezing
Embryo Freezing at Birla Fertility & IVF
Many a time, multiple embryos are formed during an IVF or IVF-ICSI cycle. In such situations, excess embryos can be frozen and used in future frozen embryo transfer cycles, giving couples and women another chance of pregnancy without needing to go through ovarian stimulation and egg collection again. Embryo freezing is also recommended for couples if either partner as an autoimmune condition which can impact their fertility or has to undergo medical treatments like chemotherapy. Success rates of frozen embryo transfers are similar to fresh embryo transfers.
At Birla Fertility & IVF, we use the latest fast-freezing technique (vitrification) for embryo freezing and frozen embryo transfer cycles for those who wish to use their frozen embryos from previous fertility treatments. All frozen embryos are stored on site at our state-of-the-art laboratory in accordance with ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) guidelines.
Why Freeze Embryos?
Embryo freezing is recommended for couples in the following situations:
If excess good-quality embryos are formed in an IVF or IVF-ICSI cycle
If the IVF cycle needs to be cancelled after egg collection for any reason like unsuitable response to ovarian stimulation
If either partner has a medical condition or is facing a medical treatment which increases the risk of infertility
Embryo Freezing Process
Embryo freezing involves the following steps:
Eggs are collected from the female partner after a cycle of ovarian stimulation. The collected eggs are fertilised with sperm in the laboratory and monitored for signs of growth (fertilisation). The resulting embryos are cultured for 2-5 days and carefully examined under a microscope. Only good-quality embryos are selected for the freezing process.
The selected embryos are placed in a protective solution (cryoprotectants). These help to remove water from within the cells of the embryo and prevent ice crystal formation during the freezing process.
The embryos are then rapidly frozen using liquid nitrogen at a temperature below -196°C and stored in tanks of liquid nitrogen till they need to be used.
Experts Speak
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can embryos be frozen?
Medical guidelines state that embryos can be frozen for 10 years. However, this can be extended for up to 55 years in special circumstances.
How successful is IVF with frozen embryos?
Frozen embryo transfers have been proven to be as effective as fresh embryo transfers to become pregnant.
Can freezing damage the embryos?
Advances in cryopreservation (freezing) technology and use of cryoprotectants have significantly improved survival rates of embryos being frozen. As survival of the embryo through the freezing and thawing process significantly depends on its quality, only good quality embryos are selected for this process.
What will happen to my frozen embryos if I have to move?
If you wish to transfer your frozen embryos to another clinic or city, both you and your partner will be required to give your informed consent by filling the relevant forms. These will be explained to you in further detail by your fertility care team.
Patient Testimonials
Birla Fertility helped us find hope again. We had two failed IVF cycles before coming here. The doctors counselled us and told us to try a FET cycle. They were with us at every step and we felt that they lived up to their promise of – All Heart. All Science. We became parents two weeks back and we are so happy! Thank you for helping us become a family!
We loved the personalised attention we got at Birla Fertility. They spend so much time with each of us and are always available. My husband and I were extremely comfortable with the whole team and our treatment is going wonderfully. Definitely recommend this for anyone who wishes to conceive but is unable to do so. Like they said – All Heart. All Science. – they stayed true to it.
Our Services
To Know More
Speak to our experts and take your first steps towards parenthood. To book an appointment or to make an enquiry, please leave your details and we will get back to you.
Learn more about fertility
No, Blog To Show