Cryopreservation

Overview

Cryopreservation is the process of freezing eggs, sperm or embryos to sub-zero temperatures for later use. When the eggs, sperm or embryos are needed, they are thawed and fertilized or used in a fertility treatment cycle. Sperm may be used for intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures.

Individuals or couples may choose cryopreservation to preserve fertility during cancer treatments or delay a pregnancy attempt until some time in the future.

Cryopreservation

Types of Cryopreservation ?

Cryopreservation procedure allows freezing of the eggs, sperms, or embryos for future use. Generally, in IVF, three types of cryopreservation techniques are followed:

Egg freezing :

Egg freezing allows you at any desired time later in the future, to use these frozen eggs. When you feel ready for pregnancy, you can use these preserved eggs to ensure a healthier pregnancy.

Sperm freezing :

Sperm freezing or sperm cryopreservation is a process of storing sperms for future use. It helps men to preserve their fertility who is about to have a treatment that can cause infertility such as cancer therapy, prostate or testicular surgery.

Embryo freezing :

Embryo cryopreservation helps to preserve the fertility of women who are not yet ready for childbearing, who want to focus on their career or higher education. Frozen embryos can also be donated to infertile couples.

IVF Candidates

Egg freezing
Sperm freezing
Embryo freezing

FAQ's

Most Common Questions

How are my eggs/embryos frozen?

Eggs and embryos are frozen in liquid nitrogen using a freezing process called vitrification. This means they are quickly frozen and thawed at several thousand degrees C per minute.

What is liquid nitrogen?

Liquid nitrogen is a colorless clear liquid at extremely low temperatures that is used to freeze eggs, embryos, and sperm.

What temperature is the liquid nitrogen?

Long-term embryo storage is at a temperature of -320F (-196C).

Do I have to make the decision to bank sperm right now?

This is a common question men have during a cancer diagnosis. Most people feel a sense of urgency to begin cancer treatments. However, even a single dose of chemotherapy or testicular radiation can affect the quality of your sperm.
Sperm banking can take some time and coordination, and should be donebeforeyou begin cancer treatments. The decision to bank sperm is necessary soon after diagnosis, in what can be a very busy and anxious time.
If you are considering sperm banking, we encourage you to discuss this with your health care team before starting your treatment. If you have already started your cancer treatment, we are available to talk with you to determine if sperm banking is still a safe option for you

Who “owns” my sperm sample(s)?

As the male who produced the samples you are the sole owner. Spouses, partners, or parents do not have legal rights to your samples.

What happens to my samples if I die?

The specimens are your legal property. The final disposition of the samples must be recorded in your Last Will and Testament. In the absence of legal documentation, your specimens will be discarded.

Why is legal custody of cryopreserved samples an issue?

Cryopreserved semen, when combined with a female’s egg, can result in the creation of a baby. As the male who produced the sample you have the right to determine the use of your genetic material.