Embryo Freezing

Also known as Embryo Cryopreservation, is a laboratory technique used to preserve embryos created through IVF (In-Vitro Fertilisation) for future pregnancy attempts.

In simple terms:

• eggs are fertilised with sperm in the laboratory.
• which later developed into embryos.
• will be frozen using the vitrification method.
• the frozen embryos can later be thawed and transferred into the uterus.

Today, at Sunfert we use a rapid freezing method called vitrification, which:

• minimises ice crystal formation
• protects embryo quality by keeping them at –196°C
• maintains high survival rates after thawing

Embryo freezing plays a key role in improving cumulative IVF success rates, reducing the need for repeated ovarian stimulation cycles.

Embryo freezing is suitable for:

1. Couples Undergoing IVF

• More good-quality embryos remain after a fresh embryo transfer
• Desire to plan future pregnancies without repeating the full IVF cycle

2. Patients with Medical Conditions

• Undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• Facing medical treatments that may affect fertility

3. Those at Risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

• Embryos may be frozen to allow the body to recover before transfer

4. Individuals Planning Delayed Parenthood

• Wish to preserve embryos while fertility potential is optimal

At Sunfert, we provide personalised fertility assessments to determine whether embryo freezing supports long-term reproductive goals.

At Sunfert, embryo freezing can be done within 6 steps:

Step 1: Fertility Evaluation

During a fertility assessment, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation for both partners to identify potential factors affecting fertility and guide a personalised treatment plan.

• Both Partners: Review of medical history, reproductive history, and previous fertility treatment outcomes.
• Female Partner: Hormonal profile testing, ovarian reserve assessment, and evaluation of the pelvic organs (uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes).
• Male Partner: Semen analysis to assess sperm quality and reproductive potential.

Step 2: Ovulation Stimulation

Hormonal medications will be given by our doctors which used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

This stage usually starts at Day 2 or Day 3 of the patient’s menstrual cycle and typically lasts about 10 to 12 days depending on the treatment protocol the patient undergoes.

Step 3: Oocyte Pick-Up (OPU)

Also known as egg retrieval, this is a minimally invasive procedure in which our fertility specialist collects eggs from the patient’s ovaries. The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

During OPU, patients are given light anaesthesia or monitored sedation by an anaesthetist, ensuring that they remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Before concluding the procedure, our fertility specialist will carefully examine the vaginal puncture site to ensure there is no bleeding.

After OPU, patients are observed for 1 to 2 hours in our day ward before being discharged home. 

Most patients experience only mild bloating, cramping, or minimal bleeding, and many are able to return to their normal routine the next day.

Step 4: Fertilisation in the Lab

The collected eggs are fertilised with the husband’s or a donor’s sperm using IVF, forming embryos that are then cultured and carefully monitored in our advanced incubators.

Step 5: Embryo Freezing and Storage

The embryos will then be frozen and stored in our laboratory using vitrification, a rapid freezing technique that preserves viability.

Step 6: Future Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

When ready, a frozen embryo can be thawed and transferred into the uterus to help achieve pregnancy.

If you are facing fertility challenges or considering embryo freezing for future family planning, start with a consultation at Sunfert. We will guide you through your fertility journey with expertise and compassionate care. 

Make an appointment with our Fertility Specialist today and take the next step toward your parenthood goals.