Fertility preservation for individuals undergoing medical treatments that could impair fertility, such as chemotherapy.
Allows couples to attempt pregnancy at a later time, which can be crucial for those facing unexpected life events or delays in family planning.
Provides an option for
genetic screening and diagnosis before implantation, helping to reduce the risk of genetic disorders.
Increases the chances of success in ART by allowing multiple embryo transfers from a single IVF cycle.
How is Embryo Cryopreservation Performed?
The process begins with ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved and fertilized in the lab. The resulting embryos are cultured for several days and then frozen using either slow-freezing or vitrification techniques. Vitrification is preferred due to its higher success rates and reduced risk of ice crystal formation, which can damage the embryos.
What are the Success Rates?
Success rates for embryo cryopreservation depend on several factors, including the age of the woman at the time of egg retrieval, the quality of the embryos, and the freezing technique used. Generally, younger women and higher-quality embryos yield better outcomes. According to recent data, the success rates for frozen embryo transfers (FET) can be comparable to or even higher than fresh transfers, especially when
vitrification is used.
Not all embryos survive the freezing and thawing process, although vitrification has significantly improved survival rates.
There is a small risk of contamination or mix-up during storage, although strict protocols and regulations minimize these risks.
Emotional and financial considerations, as the process can be costly and emotionally taxing for couples.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Embryo cryopreservation raises several
legal and ethical questions, including the rights and responsibilities regarding stored embryos, particularly in the event of divorce or death of one or both partners. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the appropriate duration for which embryos should be stored and the implications of donating unused embryos for
research or to other couples.
Couples undergoing IVF who want to maximize their chances of success.
Individuals diagnosed with conditions requiring treatments that may impair fertility.
Women who wish to delay childbearing for personal or professional reasons.
Couples with a history of genetic disorders who want to use
preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to ensure healthy embryos.
Future Directions
Research and technological advancements continue to improve the efficacy and safety of embryo cryopreservation. Innovations in
artificial intelligence for embryo selection, improved cryoprotectants, and enhanced culture media are expected to further increase success rates and broaden the applications of this crucial fertility preservation technique.
