Embryo Freezing Geelong
Embryo freezing delivered with care and clinical support.
Plan Ahead With Tailored Fertility Care
For many people, fertility treatments often feel overwhelming and costly. This is where embryo freezing is usually used as a fertility preservation method, as it offers additional flexibility in fertility treatments and preserving your options.
At Surfcoast Fertility, we understand that fertility decisions can be emotionally tough, which is why we provide evidence-based, patient-centred care tailored to your individual needs
Understanding 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 remaining embryos may then be frozen for potential future use. This is a common part of the IVF process and may allow treatment to continue without the need for further ovarian stimulation.
Potential 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 retain the potential they had at the time of freezing, not 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 is an option for women seeking to create multiple embryos in a short timeframe.
Planning fertility treatment?
Our team is here to support you with embryo freezing care.
The Embryo Freezing Process
1. Sample Collection
During the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are collected as part of your treatment plan.
2. Embryo Fertilisation
Once collected, the eggs are fertilised with sperm and allowed to develop into embryos. A fresh embryo may then be selected for transfer, with the remaining embryos frozen for potential future use.
3. Vitrification
Before freezing, any water in the embryo is removed and replaced with a protective fluid called cryoprotectant. This helps to prevent ice from damaging 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
Who should consider embryo freezing?
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
How are frozen embryos thawed and used?
When ovulation occurs, or once the uterus is ready, frozen embryos are slowly thawed. One or more thawed embryos may then be transferred into the uterus during a frozen embryo transfer (FET).
Following the transfer, we monitor to determine whether a pregnancy has occurred.
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.
How likely is a pregnancy from a frozen embryo transfer?
The likelihood of pregnancy varies. One contributing factor is the woman’s age at egg collection, as younger eggs are often more viable.
How often do the embryos survive?
In most cases, over 95% of embryos survive the thawing process.
The Surfcoast Fertility Difference
Guided by Experience
With over twenty years of experience, our team offers compassionate, evidence-based care to support your fertility planning.
Supportive Explanations
Fertility decisions are important, which is why we explain each step clearly to help you feel informed and supported.
Care Close to Home
With our clinic open weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, we are proud to support our Geelong community with accessible, local care.
Take the Next Step on 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.
