In vitro fertilization (IVF) is accompanied by the presence of more embryos than may be needed for a single transfer. Whether this transfer will be successful is unknown, and many couples may plan for another pregnancy. For this purpose, embryo cryopreservation is used.
Cryopreservation in Israel allows for the safe storage of embryos at a temperature of minus 196 degrees. This temperature allows all biochemical processes to slow down and preserves them for an extended period.
Cryopreservation may be needed for:
- surrogacy;
- preserving the necessary number of embryos for future IVF attempts;
- the development of any disease in a woman during pregnancy that hinders its normal course. Cryopreservation allows for the preservation of embryos until the next IVF attempt.
Cryopreservation offers several advantages:
- reduces the burden on the female body associated with ovarian stimulation to obtain embryos;
- the chance to conceive a child after some time;
- the possibility of donation.
Cryopreservation in Israel is performed at different stages of embryo development: A necessary condition is their quality, which increases survival during freezing and thawing. At the beginning of the process, embryos are placed in a medium with substances that prevent cell damage. Ice crystals do not form in the tissues of the embryos, and the cells are stored in a gel-like substance, allowing for their rapid recovery. The embryos are then placed in containers and subjected to freezing, which can be done using two methods – ultra-rapid and stepwise.
The storage period for embryos can range from several weeks to decades. The process of storing embryonic material does not affect its ability to develop. Damage can occur during freezing and thawing. The survival ability of an embryo after ultra-rapid freezing is significantly higher than with slow stepwise freezing. The success of the transfer process depends on the woman's age, medical support, the number of embryos, and the presence of complications.