Embryo Storage Point Cook
Take the Next Step With Individualised Fertility Care
For many, the process of fertility treatment can feel both overwhelming and costly. Embryo freezing is frequently used as a fertility preservation method, as it may offer greater flexibility during fertility treatment while helping to preserve your 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.
An Overview of Embryo Freezing
As part of the IVF process, multiple embryos are created and allowed to develop for five to six days after fertilisation. Following this development period, the most suitable embryo is identified and 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 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 available as an option for women wishing to develop multiple embryos over a condensed timeframe.
Considering fertility treatment?
Our team is here to support you with embryo freezing care.
How the Embryo Freezing Process Works
1. Sample Collection
As part of the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are collected in accordance with 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 prevent ice from 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 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 does the thawing and transfer of frozen embryos work?
Once ovulation has taken place, or when the uterus is prepared, frozen embryos are carefully thawed. One or more of the thawed embryos may then be transferred into the uterus as part of a frozen embryo transfer (FET). Following the transfer, monitoring takes place to determine whether a pregnancy has occurred.
What is the cost of embryo freezing?
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.
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%.
The Surfcoast Fertility Approach
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
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 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.
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.
