Embryo freezing or Cryopreservation of embryos is a method of preserving the health of embryos. It is the process of preserving an embryo at sub-zero temperature (-196°C) is called cryopreservation. This is done in order to preserve the surplus embryos after an IVF cycle. The surplus embryos can be utilized for the couple in the next cycle or can be donated to another couple, if stored carefully. Studies found that, this technique of preservation can increase the chance of successful pregnancy with any IVF treatment cycle.
Freezing or Cryopreservation is done to preserve the viability of embryos. Specialized freezing equipment is used to store the embryos. It can only be stored to an extended period. Otherwise, the embryos will lose its quality.
The main advantage of this procedure is that, the woman does not require ovarian stimulation or egg retrieval in the cycle when the frozen embryos are being transferred . Studies indicate 70% success rate for embryo freezing.