Fertility preservation Anglesea
Plan Your Future With Customised 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 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 remain may be frozen for possible future use. This is a routine part of the IVF process and may mean that treatment can continue without requiring additional ovarian stimulation.
The Potential Advantages of Embryo Freezing
Reliable Storage
Remaining embryos from an IVF cycle may be safely stored for a period of up to five years in Victoria, with extensions possible upon 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 embryo transfers are often similar to, and sometimes greater than, those achieved with fresh embryo transfers.
Duostim Options
Duostim may be an option for women looking to produce multiple embryos within a shorter period of time.
Planning fertility treatment?
Our dedicated team is here to guide and support you with your embryo freezing care.
Understanding the Embryo Freezing Process
1. Sample Collection
As part of the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are collected in accordance with your 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
Prior to freezing, the water content within the embryo is removed and replaced with a protective solution known as cryoprotectant. This process helps to protect the embryo from ice damage during freezing.
4. Freezing
The embryos are then placed in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C, where they are stored securely until they are needed for a future treatment cycle.
Your Embryo Freezing Questions Answered
Who should consider embryo freezing?
There are a number of reasons why embryo freezing may be worth discussing with your care team. It is often considered 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?
At the time of ovulation, or once the uterus is considered ready, frozen embryos are slowly and carefully thawed. One or more of these 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 taken place.
What is the cost of embryo freezing?
Embryo freezing involves a number of costs that are worth considering. Hormone treatments, egg harvesting, embryo culture, freezing, and ongoing storage may all contribute to the overall expense. If you have questions about costs, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team or take a look at our costs page.
What are the chances of 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.
What is the survival rate of frozen embryos?
In most instances, the survival rate of frozen embryos through the thawing process is greater than 95%.
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
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
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.
Start the Next Step 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.
