Fertility preservation Torquay
Take the Next Step With Individualised 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 appreciate that fertility decisions may be an emotional experience, which is why we deliver evidence-based, patient-centred care designed around your individual needs.
Understanding Embryo Freezing
During IVF treatment, several embryos are created and permitted to develop over a period of five to six days after fertilisation. Once they have reached the appropriate stage of development, the most suitable embryo is then chosen 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.
Potential Benefits of Freezing Embryos
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 hold the same potential they had when they were frozen, regardless of 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 may be considered for women who are hoping to create multiple embryos within a short period of time.
Planning fertility treatment?
Our team is here to support you with embryo freezing care.
Understanding the Embryo Freezing Process
1. Sample Collection
Throughout the IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are gathered as part of your personalised treatment plan.
2. Embryo Fertilisation
Once the eggs and sperm have been collected, fertilisation takes place and the eggs are allowed to develop into embryos. A suitable fresh embryo may then be selected for transfer, with any remaining embryos being frozen for potential future use.
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.
Common Embryo Freezing Questions
Is embryo freezing right for you?
Embryo freezing may be a suitable option for a number of reasons. In many circumstances, 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
What is the process for thawing and using frozen embryos?
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 are the costs involved in freezing embryos?
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 successful are frozen embryo transfers in achieving pregnancy?
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.
What proportion of frozen embryos survive thawing?
In most instances, the survival rate of frozen embryos through the thawing process is greater than 95%.
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
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.
Begin the Next Chapter of 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.
