Fertility preservation Lorne
Take the Next Step With Individualised Fertility Care
For many people, navigating fertility treatments can feel daunting and expensive. Embryo freezing is commonly used as a fertility preservation method, offering greater flexibility in fertility treatments and helping to keep your options open.
At Surfcoast Fertility, we recognise that fertility decisions may be emotionally challenging, which is why we offer evidence-based, patient-centred care tailored to your personal circumstances.
An Overview of Embryo Freezing
Throughout the IVF process, a number of embryos are created and given five to six days to develop following fertilisation. Once development has occurred, the most appropriate embryo is 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
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
Frozen embryos hold the same potential they had when they were frozen, regardless of the woman’s current age.
Pregnancy Rates
At Surfcoast Fertility, the pregnancy rates associated with frozen embryos are often on par with, or occasionally higher than, those recorded for fresh embryo transfers.
Duostim Options
Duostim may be an option for women looking to produce multiple embryos within a shorter period of time.
Considering fertility treatment?
Our team is available to support you throughout your embryo freezing journey.
How the Embryo Freezing Process Works
1. Sample Collection
During your IVF cycle, the collection of eggs and sperm takes place as part of your individual 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
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
The embryos are then frozen in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C and stored securely until needed for future treatment.
Your Embryo Freezing Questions Answered
Who is embryo freezing suited to?
There are several reasons why embryo freezing may be worth considering. It is commonly recommended in cases where 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 is the process for thawing and using frozen embryos?
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.
What is the cost of embryo freezing?
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?
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.
What is the survival rate of frozen embryos?
In most cases, over 95% of embryos survive the thawing process.
Why Choose Surfcoast Fertility
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
Fertility decisions are significant, which is why we are committed to explaining each step of the process clearly to help you feel well-informed and supported.
Care Close to Home
Our clinic is open weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm, and we are proud to offer accessible, local care to our 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.
