Frozen Embryo Transfer - IVF with cryopreserved embryos


Embryos from in vitro fertilization treatments can be frozen for use in later treatments. Cryopreservation stores the embryos in liquid nitrogen. A Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycle is the process of thawing a previously frozen embryo and implanting it into a woman’s uterus to successfully establish pregnancy.IVF treatment using cryopreserved embryos follows the same procedure as newly fertilize embryos.

In conventional IVF, women are prescribed fertility drugs to induce ovarian stimulation. Encouraging ovaries to produce more eggs than during a natural cycle increases the chances of successful fertilization. The use of fertility drugs produces more eggs than are necessary. Couples can choose to cryopreserve surplus eggs collected in IVF cycles for use in later fertility treatments. Eggs can be donated to be used by infertile women in IVF treatment cycles.

Who can benefit from frozen embryos?

IVF treatment is not always successful at the first cycle. Freezing eggs allows couples to attempt a second cycle without repeating the egg collection procedure. Fertility drugs can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in some women. Women who are at risk of OHSS are advised to freeze all of their eggs to be used in later assisted reproductive treatments.
Cryopreservation is used by couples who wish to have a further child or whose health may affect their future fertility.

Embryo Freezing Method

Embryo cells contain water, which must be removed prior to freezing so as to prevent ice crystal formation. The embryos are then mixed with a cryoprotectant fluid, and put into a glass ampoule. They are stored in liquid nitrogen at a low temperature to preserve the quality of the embryos.

Embryo Thawing Method

To thaw frozen embryos, they are removed from the ampoule and brought to room temperature. The cryoprotectant fluid is gradually removed and carefully diluted with water. When the embryos are fully returned to room temperature, they are ready to be transferred to the recipient mother.

Frozen embryos have an equally high success rate and there is no increased rate of abnormalities using frozen embryos. Patients are often encouraged to choose the cost-effective route of freezing their embryos as a guarantee in the event that the first embryo transfer fails, or pregnancy is not carried out to term. Frozen embryos can be frozen and stored for several years, reducing the stress of further treatments.












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