Fertility preservation Ocean Grove
Prepare for the Future With Personalised Fertility Care
Fertility treatments can feel complex and costly for many people. Embryo freezing is often considered as a fertility preservation method, providing additional flexibility throughout fertility treatment and supporting your future options.
At Surfcoast Fertility, we understand that fertility decisions may be emotionally tough, which is why we provide evidence-based, patient-centred care tailored to your individual needs.
What Is Embryo Freezing?
During the IVF process, multiple embryos are created and allowed to develop over five to six days following fertilisation. Once they have developed, the most suitable embryo is then selected for transfer.
Any embryos that are not transferred may then be frozen for potential future use. This forms a common part of the IVF process and may allow treatment to continue without the need for repeated ovarian stimulation.
Potential Benefits of Freezing Embryos
Reliable Storage
Additional embryos created during an IVF cycle may be kept in secure storage for up to five years in Victoria, with extensions available subject to approval.
Maintained Potential
The potential of frozen embryos is preserved from the time of freezing, and is not affected by the woman’s current age.
Pregnancy Rates
At Surfcoast Fertility, pregnancy rates for frozen embryos are frequently comparable to, or in some cases higher than, those seen with fresh embryo transfers.
Duostim Options
Duostim is available as an option for women wishing to develop multiple embryos over a condensed timeframe.
Planning fertility treatment?
Our team is here to support you with embryo freezing care.
Understanding the Embryo Freezing Process
1. Sample Collection
Throughout the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are gathered as part of your personalised treatment plan.
2. Embryo Fertilisation
Following collection, the eggs are fertilised with sperm and given the opportunity to develop into embryos. One fresh embryo may then be chosen for transfer, with any remaining embryos frozen for potential use in future treatment.
3. Vitrification
In preparation for freezing, the water present in the embryo is removed and replaced with a protective fluid known as cryoprotectant. This helps minimise the risk of ice crystal formation that could otherwise damage the embryo.
4. Freezing
The embryos are then frozen in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C and stored securely until needed for future treatment.
Answering Your Embryo Freezing Questions
Is embryo freezing right for you?
Embryo freezing may be a suitable option for a number of reasons. In many circumstances, it may be recommended if you are:
- Undertaking IVF
- Undergoing preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
- Undergoing hormone therapy
- Preparing for cancer treatment
- Planning gender affirmation surgery
- Seeking to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
How does the thawing and transfer of frozen embryos work?
When ovulation occurs, or once the uterus has been appropriately prepared, frozen embryos are gradually thawed. One or more thawed embryos may then be placed into the uterus during a frozen embryo transfer (FET). After the transfer, we monitor progress to assess whether a pregnancy has been achieved.
What is the cost of embryo freezing?
When it comes to embryo freezing, there are several costs that may need to be considered. These include hormone treatments, egg harvesting, embryo culture, freezing, and storage. If you would like to discuss costs further, our team is available to help, or you are welcome to visit our costs page.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy following a frozen embryo transfer?
The likelihood of achieving a pregnancy can vary. A contributing factor is the age of the woman at the time of egg collection, as eggs collected when a woman is younger are generally considered more viable.
How many embryos survive the thawing process?
In most cases, over 95% of embryos survive the thawing process.
What Sets Surfcoast Fertility Apart
Guided by Experience
Our team brings over 20 years of experience to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in support of your fertility planning.
Supportive Explanations
Because fertility decisions are so important, we take care to explain each step clearly, ensuring you feel informed and supported at every stage of your journey.
Care Close to Home
With our doors open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, we are pleased to provide accessible, locally based care to the Geelong community.
Take the Next Step on Your Fertility Journey
For those considering fertility treatment, embryo freezing may be a significant part of your care plan. At Surfcoast Fertility, we draw on established clinical methods to support you through your fertility journey. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to reach out to our team or make an appointment.
