Embryo Freezing Anglesea
Plan Ahead With Tailored 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 appreciate that fertility decisions may be an emotional experience, which is why we deliver evidence-based, patient-centred care designed around your individual needs.
About 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.
Remaining embryos may be frozen for potential use in future treatment cycles. This is a common aspect of the IVF process and may allow further treatment to proceed without the need for additional ovarian stimulation.
Possible Benefits of Embryo Freezing
Reliable Storage
Excess embryos from an IVF cycle may be securely stored for up to five years in Victoria, with extensions available with approval.
Maintained Potential
Frozen embryos hold the same potential they had when they were frozen, regardless of the woman’s current age.
Pregnancy Rates
Surfcoast Fertility’s pregnancy rates for frozen embryos are often the same or sometimes better than fresh embryo transfers.
Duostim Options
Duostim may be considered for women who are hoping to create multiple embryos within a short period of time.
Thinking about fertility treatment?
Our team is available to support you throughout your embryo freezing journey.
How the Embryo Freezing Process Works
1. Sample Collection
During the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are collected as part of your treatment plan.
2. Embryo Fertilisation
Once the eggs and sperm have been collected, fertilisation takes place and the eggs are allowed to develop into embryos. A suitable fresh embryo may then be selected for transfer, with any remaining embryos being frozen for potential future use.
3. Vitrification
Before the freezing process begins, water within the embryo is replaced with a protective fluid called cryoprotectant. This is done to help reduce the risk of ice forming and damaging the embryo.
4. Freezing
Once prepared, the embryos are frozen in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C and stored safely until required for future treatment cycles.
Common Embryo Freezing Questions
Who is embryo freezing suited to?
Embryo freezing may be worth considering for several reasons. In many cases, 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
What happens when frozen embryos are thawed and transferred?
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.
How much does freezing embryos cost?
There are several costs to consider when freezing embryos. The cost of hormone treatments, egg harvesting, embryo culture, freezing, and storage may all contribute. If you are concerned about costs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team or visit our costs page.
What are the chances of pregnancy from a frozen embryo transfer?
Pregnancy outcomes from frozen embryo transfers can vary. One factor that may influence the likelihood of pregnancy is the woman’s age at the time of egg collection, with younger eggs generally considered to have greater viability.
How often do the embryos survive?
Generally speaking, more than 95% of embryos are able to survive the thawing process in most cases.
The Surfcoast Fertility Approach
Guided by Experience
With more than 20 years of experience, our team is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to assist with your fertility planning.
Supportive Explanations
We understand that fertility decisions carry great significance, which is why we take the time to explain each step clearly so that you feel informed and supported throughout.
Care Close to Home
Our clinic welcomes patients weekdays between 9 am and 5 pm, and we take pride in offering accessible, local fertility care to those in the Geelong community.
Begin the Next Chapter of Your Fertility Journey
If you’re considering fertility treatment, embryo freezing may form an important part of your care plan. At Surfcoast Fertility, we only use established clinical methods to support your fertility journey. If you have any questions, you’re always welcome to speak with our team or book an appointment.
