What do you mean by embryo freezing?
Embryo freezing or embryo cryopreservation refers to the process of freezing and storing embryos. The embryos are thawed and then used.
Post the freezing of embryos, these embryos are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks and can be frozen in them for many years.
What are the reasons for embryo freezing?
There are several reasons why couples prefer to freeze their embryos:
- They feel it is a better option than having any extra embryo destroyed.
- It offers another chance to get pregnant in case of IVF failure, as the couple doesn’t have to undergo the entire procedure again.
- If the couple already has a baby, they can use the embryo later for having a second child.
- Women can save their embryos before beginning treatments like chemotherapy for cancer, reducing their chances of becoming pregnant.
Why do couples prefer to transfer frozen embryos?
It is always advisable to transfer only one or two embryos for IVF pregnancy, even if several embryos are formed. Transferring multiple embryos is avoided as it results in numerous pregnancies which can lead to delivery complications.
The doctors select an embryo that seems the most viable and then transfer it to the uterus. The remaining embryos undergo embryo freezing. If the pregnancy fails, the couple can choose between two options- select the remaining frozen embryo or undergo the entire IVF cycle again. The former is more affordable.
Several couples choose embryo freezing as they are planning for a second child. They pick this option as opting for a fresh cycle is more expensive.
It might seem risky to undergo IVF treatment with frozen embryos; however, the process has become much more advanced and improved. The statistics portray growth in health and a reduction in childhood cancer cases among infants. Technologies are advancing to secure the life of both the mother and the baby.
Is it safe to have children born from embryo freezing?
A study carried out in 2020 by the British Fertility Society suggested that babies born from embryo freezing are healthier than babies born from fresh embryos.
Babies born from frozen embryos usually have a more extended gestation period and are significantly heavier than babies from fresh embryos.
Overall, embryo freezing is a safe option to conceive successfully with a healthy child being delivered. Irrespective of when you conceive, it is highly advisable to consult a professional and experienced IVF clinic having high success rates.
