Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation is a long-term storage technique used to freeze and preserve eggs, embryos, and sperm for future fertility treatments. This method allows individuals and couples to safeguard their reproductive potential, making it a valuable option for those planning to delay parenthood, undergoing medical treatments, or preserving high-quality embryos for later use.

Who Needs Cryopreservation?

• Individuals wishing to delay parenthood for personal or career reasons
• Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• Women with diminishing ovarian reserve
• Couples undergoing IVF treatment with extra embryos
• Men with low sperm count or undergoing testicular surgery
• Individuals considering donor egg, sperm, or embryo programs

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Types of Cryopreservation

1. Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)

• Preserves unfertilized eggs for women who want to conceive later.
• Ideal for women delaying pregnancy or undergoing medical treatments.

2. Embryo Freezing (Embryo Cryopreservation)

• Freezes fertilized eggs (embryos) for later use in Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET).
• Commonly used in IVF cycles to improve success rates.

3. Sperm Freezing (Semen Cryopreservation)

• Preserves sperm for future fertility treatments.
• Beneficial for men facing medical treatments, vasectomy, or sperm banking.

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Cryopreservation Process

Step 1: Sample Collection & Preparation

• Eggs, sperm, or embryos are collected and assessed for quality.
• Processing ensures optimal preservation conditions.

Step 2: Freezing Process

• Cryoprotectants are used to protect cells from damage.
• The sample is frozen using slow freezing or vitrification.

Step 3: Long-Term Storage

• Frozen samples are stored in liquid nitrogen (-196°C) for extended periods.
• Samples remain viable for years without degradation.

Step 4: Thawing & Utilization

• When needed, frozen eggs, sperm, or embryos are carefully thawed.
• They are then used in IVF, ICSI, or intrauterine insemination (IUI).

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Benefits of Cryopreservation

• Preserves fertility options for the future
• High survival rates of eggs, embryos, and sperm
• Reduces the need for repeated IVF cycles
• Ideal for fertility preservation before medical treatments
• Allows for planned parenthood at the right time

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