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Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC)

A medical procedure which helps to preserve a woman's fertility by freezing the ovarian tissue for future use, ideal for patients facing medical or age-related fertility challenges.

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What is Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC)?

Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC) is a fertility preservation method where a small portion of ovarian tissue is surgically removed and frozen. This tissue contains immature eggs that can later be transplanted back through In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment.

We use advanced cryopreservation techniques to maintain tissue viability, offering women a chance to conceive when they are ready.

Embryologist at Sunfert IVF handling liquid nitrogen from cryostorage to freeze and preserve eggs, sperm, embryos, and ovarian tissue

Who Can Benefit from OTC?

OTC is suitable for women who:

  • are about to undergo cancer treatments (chemotherapy or radiotherapy) that may affect fertility.
  • have medical conditions that risk early ovarian failure.
  • are at risk of premature ovarian insufficiency due to genetic or autoimmune conditions.

When Should A Patient Consider OTC?

Timing is crucial for the success of OTC. We recommend considering this procedure if patient:

  • is diagnosed with a condition that may affect ovarian function.
  • plan to undergo treatments known to compromise fertility.
  • desire to preserve fertility at a younger age to increase the chances of future conception.

How is OTC Performed at Sunfert?

At Sunfert, OTC can be done within 3 steps:

Step 1: Fertility Evaluation

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

 

Step 2: Tissue Removal

A small portion of ovarian tissue is carefully removed under sedation.

 

Step 3: Cryopreservation and Storage

The ovarian tissue is processed and frozen using advanced vitrification methods. Then stored securely in our world-class laboratory until the patient is ready to use it.

Take the Next Step with Our Fertility Specialists

If you are facing fertility challenges, start with a consultation with our specialists. 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.

What is Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC) and how does it work?

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is a fertility preservation technique where a small portion of ovarian tissue is surgically removed, frozen, and stored for future use.

The tissue contains immature eggs that may later support fertility when re-implanted or used in assisted reproduction such as IVF.

Advanced cryopreservation methods are used to maintain tissue viability at ultra-low temperatures, helping preserve reproductive potential for future pregnancy.

What are the risks or side effects after Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC)?

Most patients experience mild discomfort after the procedure, with a short recovery period. Serious complications are rare. Any potential risks, such as bleeding or infection, are carefully discussed during consultation, and patients are closely monitored by our clinical team.

Who should consider Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC)?

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is suitable for women at risk of losing fertility due to medical or genetic conditions.

This includes those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, individuals with conditions that may cause early ovarian failure, and women at risk of premature ovarian insufficiency.

A fertility assessment at a specialist centre such as Sunfert helps determine suitability.

How does Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC) help with future fertility treatment?

Frozen ovarian tissue can later be re-implanted or used alongside IVF treatment to restore hormonal function or support egg development.

This provides an opportunity for natural or assisted conception in the future, depending on individual medical circumstances.

Can OTC (Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation) guarantee pregnancy in the future?

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) does not guarantee pregnancy, but it significantly improves the possibility of future conception.

Success depends on factors such as age at the time of tissue freezing, overall health, and tissue quality.

A personalised consultation helps set realistic expectations and guide the best fertility pathway.

When is the best time to consider Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC)?

The best time to consider Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is before any treatment or condition that may affect ovarian function.

This includes prior to cancer treatment, fertility-impacting surgery, or when early ovarian decline is diagnosed.

Earlier preservation generally improves the chances of future reproductive success.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.

If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.

Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI