Embryo Freezing
Embryo freezing stores embryos created in IVF for a later transfer. It differs from egg freezing because fertilisation is already complete before storage.
Why embryos are frozen
A cycle may produce more embryos than will be transferred. The uterus may not be ready that month. Embryos may be frozen while a genetic test result is pending, or a fresh transfer may need to be postponed. A stored embryo can be thawed and transferred in a later month or years afterwards. Storage does not mean every embryo will lead to a pregnancy.
Who may consider it?
- People who want an embryo set aside for a later sibling pregnancy
- Cycles in which transfer is delayed because of the uterus or health
- Treatment that waits for a PGT result
- Couples whose egg and sperm source is settled now, but whose pregnancy plan is later
How the path usually unfolds
- IVF creates the embryos, and the ones to store are discussed
- Embryos are frozen and entered in the laboratory record
- When transfer is planned, the uterus is prepared
- Thaw, transfer and follow-up
How long embryos may be stored depends on the clinic's conditions and on national rules. This page is general information. Which embryo is frozen is decided with the physician and the laboratory.
IVF
Egg Donation
Tandem Treatment
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