Embryo Freezing (CRYO-CRYOPRESERVATION)

What is Cryo?

Cryo is the freezing and storing procedure applied to embryos (the cellular structure formed via the fertilization of the egg cell by the sperm).

Which couples are suitable for this procedure?

If there is an excess number of high-quality embryos that are left during the application of the in vitro fertilization procedure, these untransferred embryos are cryopreserved. If needed, these embryos can be thawed and used in further cycles. At least two cryopreserved embryos are needed for one treatment cycle. As per the regulations in Turkey, cryopreserved embryos can be stored in liquid nitrogen for five years provided that consent of couples are obtained. In case of divorce or death of one of the spouses, the consent form for embryo freezing (Cryopreservation) will automatically become obsolete and the embryos will be discarded.

What are the advantages?

Cryo is an economical procedure. Because you will have already obtained embryos of you, there will be no need to stimulate the ovaries with medications and to perform egg retrieval again. Thus, treatment costs will be reduced by half. Furthermore, the treatment process will be less stressful for patients. There will be no risks of failure to obtain egg cells or embryos and no stress will occur due to surgery. Treatment compliance of the patient occurs easily with this procedure. Adverse reactions potentially arising from this treatment are less.

How is Cryopreservation Cycle Performed?

Medications in the tablet form containing the estrogen hormone are used in the treatment. This hormone ensures that in internal lining of the uterus, where the embryo will settle in, develops healthily. When the endometrium reaches the appropriate thickness, the embryos are thawed and transferred. The cryopreservation cycle can be applied in some patients during natural menstrual cycles.

Do Babies Born As a Result of the Cryopreservation Procedure Have Problems?

Studies have shown that the risk of anomalies is not different for babies born via the use of cryopreserved embryos.

What Are the Success Rates?

Of the embryos that are cryopreserved via current technological methods (vitrification), 95% can be thawed healthily. The conception rates are 30-40%.

The Content of the Cryopreservation Agreement Form

Your extra embryos left over (not transferred) from the previous IVF/ICSI therapy will be frozen and stored to be used for a possible future therapy cycle upon your consent. A fee will be charged for the cryopreservation procedure and for the storage of the frozen embryo. Your embryos will be stored for not more than five years as long as you wish and stay married. As per regulations, you must apply to our clinic with a petition to continue with the storage of your embryos. If we receive no petition submissions from you at the end of one year; your embryos will be disposed at the end of the coming month lawfully. The disposal procedure is conducted under the supervision of an official from the health services directory of Ministry of Health of Republic of Turkey.