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Embryo cryopreservation, commonly referred to as embryo freezing, involves removing eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm from a partner or donor to create embryos, and freezing them for future use. Embryo transfer with thawed embryos is widely used and has pregnancy success rates similar to those of embryos that haven’t been frozen.
Aspiring parents may choose in vitro fertilization (IVF) with embryo freezing for a variety of reasons including:
Advancing age
Future family planning, as a successful IVF cycle can produce multiple embryos
Family balancing
Having a high-risk occupation that may impact fertility
Planning on undergoing a vasectomy
Prior to starting an IVF cycle, you’ll undergo a test to check your hormone levels as well as an ultrasound to ensure your ovaries are ready to begin the process. Then, you’ll take injectible medications that will stimulate the ovaries to grow multiple follicles. Once your eggs are ready, the doctor guides a needle and catheter through the vaginal wall to the ovary to collect them. An embryologist then fertilizes the eggs and allows the resulting embryos to grow for a few days before freezing them. Before they’re frozen, embryos can be tested for genetic conditions. Frozen embryos are carefully stored and monitored and can remain frozen for 10 years or even longer. Once thawed, the embryos can be implanted into the patient or another person.
The fertility specialists of Main Line Fertility are proud to offer a wide range of fertility care services in Pennsylvania to meet every patient’s need, including comprehensive fertility preservation such as embryo freezing. Connect with Main Line Fertility today to schedule a consultation by filling out our online form or contact us directly at one of our fertility clinics in Philadelphia, Bryn Mawr, West Chester, Havertown, Reading, or Fort Washington.
