Eggs, sperm and embryos can be frozen and stored safely for future use. We use vitrification, an ultra-fast freezing method that protects cells from damage.
Embryo freezing
Fertility medicines often produce more eggs, and therefore more embryos, than can be transferred at once. We routinely freeze the extra good-quality embryos so you can use them later without another full cycle. Every embryo is coded, labelled and stored in its own container to keep its identity secure. Embryos can stay frozen for many years; the storage agreement is renewed every year.
Sperm freezing and banking
- A backup sample for the day of IUI, IVF or ICSI, in case giving a fresh sample is difficult
- Men about to have cancer treatment, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery on the testes
- Men undergoing ICSI, so enough sperm is available
- Sperm retrieved surgically from the testis or epididymis, so the procedure does not have to be repeated
Egg freezing
Women who want to delay pregnancy, or who are about to have treatment that may affect their ovaries, can freeze their eggs. Eggs frozen at a younger age keep the quality they had when they were frozen.
Common questions
Are frozen embryos as good as fresh ones?
With vitrification, most good-quality embryos survive thawing, and pregnancy rates with frozen embryo transfer are similar to, and sometimes better than, fresh transfer.
What is the best age to freeze eggs?
Ideally before 35. Egg quality falls with age, and more eggs are usually needed for the same chance of pregnancy later.
Talk to our team
Book a consultation, or call us during consulting hours. We will explain your options in plain language before anything is decided.
Ask about freezing