Embryo Freezing
In general, if the number of healthy embryos obtained in IVF treatments is more than one, the embryos in suitable conditions can be frozen in order to be used later. The maximum number of embryos that can be transferred in expectant mothers is two or three. If there are more embryos, the most suitable ones are selected and frozen. Thanks to this procedure, the chance of pregnancy can be accessed again in the future.
In which cases is embryo freezing done?
- If good quality embryos remain after embryo transfer
- If bleeding occurs during treatment
- Depending on the drugs used, all embryos can be frozen, especially in hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) developing in patients with polycystic ovaries.
- In cases where the endometrium tissue surrounding the uterus does not thicken enough
- In cases where intrauterine operation is required (endometrial polyp, myoma, adhesion)
- Before cancer treatments that require chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Thawing and transferring frozen embryos provides couples with a chance of almost a fresh pregnancy at much less expense. Moreover, there is no need for long-term drug use, egg collection and microinjection processes.
The purpose of preparing the patient for transfer for frozen embryos is to prepare the endometrium to reach sufficient thickness. For this, a natural cycle or a cycle prepared with drugs containing estrogen may be preferred. In the natural cycle, ovulation is followed and the endometrium is expected to thicken on its own. If the day of ovulation is determined and the embryo is frozen on which day, the transfer day is determined accordingly.
Scientific studies have shown that frozen embryos give a healthy pregnancy chance even when thawed after a very long time, such as 10-15 years. There is no legal restriction on embryo storage in our country.
