Cryopreservation
Embryos or sperm can be preserved for future use by cryopreservation. Although a few (about 200 pregnancies) have been conceived using frozen eggs, the procedure is still too new to recommend widespread use. However, frozen embryos can remain viable for long periods of time. If a couple has an excess of embryos from an IVF cycle, frozen embryos can be used for a future cycle without hormonal stimulation or for subsequent pregnancies.
Sperm can be cryopreserved, stored for use during an IUI cycle if the partner or sperm donor travels frequently. All donor sperm is now cryopreserved and quarantined for a period of six months to confirm that the donor does not carry any viral diseases.
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| Cryopreservation: The process of freezing commonly used for embryos or sperm. Cryopreservation of oocytes is a relatively recent development. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A method of introducing a quantity of washed sperm directly into the uterus via a catheter to enhance to chances of fertilization. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A procedure that involves removing eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them in the laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the woman's uterus through the cervix. |