Fertility preservation Mount Gambier
Plan Ahead With Tailored 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
Excess embryos from an IVF cycle may be securely stored for up to five years in Victoria, with extensions available with 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 an option for women seeking to create multiple embryos in a short timeframe.
Considering fertility treatment?
We are here to provide you with support and care throughout your embryo freezing treatment.
The Embryo Freezing Process
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
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 subsequently frozen in liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -196 °C and kept in secure storage until they are needed for future treatment.
Frequently Asked Embryo Freezing Questions
Who may benefit from 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 is the process for thawing and using frozen embryos?
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 are the costs involved in freezing embryos?
There are a number of costs to take into account when considering embryo freezing. Hormone treatments, egg harvesting, embryo culture, freezing, and storage may all factor into the overall cost. If you have any concerns about costs, please feel free to contact our team or visit our costs page.
How likely is a pregnancy from a frozen embryo transfer?
The chance of pregnancy can vary from person to person. One factor that may contribute is the woman’s age at the time of egg collection, as eggs collected at a younger age are often more viable.
How many embryos survive the thawing process?
In the majority of cases, more than 95% of embryos survive the thawing process.
The Surfcoast Fertility Difference
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 clinic open weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, we are proud to support our Geelong community with accessible, local care.
Move Forward on Your Fertility Journey
Should you be considering fertility treatment, embryo freezing may play an important role in your care plan. At Surfcoast Fertility, we are committed to using only established clinical methods to support your fertility journey. If you have any questions, our team is always available to assist, or you are welcome to book an appointment.
