Embryo freezing (Vitrification)

Embryo freezing is a technique commonly utilized in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to preserve fertility and enable future conception. It involves vitrification which is an ultrarapid cooling technique of embryos to subzero temperatures. Embryos are then stored in liquid nitrogen at -196 C to maintain viability over an extended period.

1. IVF Treatment: During IVF treatment, excess embryos that are not transferred to the female partner’s uterus during a fresh IVF cycle may be cryopreserved for future use.
2. Fertility Preservation: Embryo freezing allows individuals or couples to preserve embryos for future use if they are not ready to conceive at the time of IVF treatment or if they want to have children later in life.

1. IVF Process: Embryos are created through the process of IVF, where eggs are retrieved from the woman’s ovaries, fertilized with sperm in the laboratory, and allowed to develop for a few days. (refer to IVF section for more details)
2. Embryo Assessment: After fertilization, embryos are assessed for quality and development.
3. Vitrification: Suitable embryos are selected for cryopreservation. They are cooled using a cryoprotectant solution and then stored in liquid nitrogen tanks.