Cryopreservation, or embryo freezing, is a technique that preserves fertilized eggs for future use. This process is commonly employed in conjunction with fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Cryopreservation process step by step
Embryo cryopreservation typically involves several steps. First, the wife undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then retrieved and fertilized in vitro with her husband’s sperm. The resulting embryos are frozen at various stages of development, usually on the fifth day after fertilization.
There are two methods for the cryopreservation process: slow freezing and vitrification. Slow freezing gradually lowers the temperature of the embryos, while vitrification involves rapid cooling.
Vitrification is preferred because it minimizes the formation of ice crystals, which can damage the cellular structure of the embryos. This method has significantly improved the survival rates of embryos upon thawing.
Read more about : Embryo transfer
Cryopreservation temperature
Embryo cryopreservation involves freezing embryos at extremely low temperatures, typically around -196°C, which is the temperature of liquid nitrogen. The use of cryoprotectants during the cooling process helps protect the embryos from freezing damage by reducing the risk of ice crystal formation. This ultra-low temperature environment ensures the long-term viability of the embryos, allowing them to be thawed and used for implantation in the future.
What happens to the embryos after they are frozen?
When the frozen embryos are needed to be used, they are carefully thawed in a controlled process to minimize damage. The thawing process involves gradually warming the embryos and removing the cryoprotectants used during freezing.
Once thawed, the embryos are assessed for viability. Those that survive the thawing process are then ready for transfer into the wife’s uterus, where they can potentially implant and develop into a pregnancy.
About cryopreservation at Rahem Fertility Center
Rahem Fertility Center is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care. Our advanced cryopreservation facilities and experienced team work together to optimize embryo survival and implantation rates. By applying the latest protocols for uterine preparation and frozen embryo transfer, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Read more about : Frozen egg transfer
Final Thoughts
Cryopreservation provides a flexible and reliable option for future family planning. However, careful consideration of factors such as age and health is required, as these can impact the success rates of future pregnancies.
FAQ’s
Wondering about the cryopreservation process? Find answers to your questions here.
Why would wives freeze their embryos?
Wives freeze their embryos for various reasons, such as delaying parenthood, or undergoing cancer treatments, like chemotherapy.
Is cryopreservation safe?
Embryo freezing is a highly successful and safe procedure when conducted under expert care and optimal conditions.
Is there an age limit for using frozen embryos?
The success rate of frozen embryo transfer generally decreases as the wife’s age increases. Therefore, it’s recommended to consider frozen embryo transfer while the wife is in her thirties.
Don’t wait, your dream family is a step away. Call us to schedule a consultation with our expert medical staff specializing in assisted reproduction