Cryopreservation of Embryos

What is cryopreservation of embryos?
Cryopreservation of embryos, also called embryo freezing, is a process used to conserve fertilized eggs for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or future use. It is a revolutionary method, which is used globally as a part of a successful IVF journey. Embryo cryopreservation was originally achieved successfully in the late 1980s, and has assisted many couples struggling with infertility ever since.

Why should someone freeze an embryo?
Embryo cryopreservation is a procedure that medical professionals will incorporate in your IVF journey, or your intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Your doctor may suggest embryo freezing for a variety of purposes, that often aim to resolve several issues. Generally, cryopreservation may be the best option for patients who wish to achieve the following:
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: In some cases, patients who undergo IVF treatment may face a challenge called “ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome”. This is a rare, but serious complication, in which the ovaries of the patient produce eggs rapidly. The syndrome could affect the success of the IVF cycle, and it is necessary to avoid it.
- Premature rise in progesterone: During ovarian stimulation, premature rise in progesterone in IVF cycles has been associated with lower pregnancy rates due to its impact on endometrial receptivity. When progesterone levels exceed 1.5 ng/mL before ovulation trigger, the synchronization between embryo and endometrium is disrupted, reducing implantation potential. To overcome this challenge, embryo cryopreservation (freeze-all strategy) is recommended, allowing for embryo transfer in a subsequent, hormonally optimized cycle, thereby improving pregnancy outcomes.
Don’t let the above frighten you. Our world-renowned medical professionals in Gyn Care IVF Greece are equipped with the necessary skills to help you overcome any obstacle that you may face. We are with you, every step of the way.
Cryopreservation of Embryos: Procedure
The embryo freezing procedure can be incorporated into your IVF journey during the early stages, after egg retrieval. There are two stages in which cryopreservation is possible:
- During the cleavage stage, when the cell has multiplied between four and eight times.
- During the blastocyst stage, when the single cell has multiplied approximately 200 times.
There used to be two methods which medical personnel would use to freeze the embryos: slow freezing and vitrification. Slow freezing has gradually fallen out of favour and is not currently used by state-of-the-art IVF clinics. Vitrification is proven to be the most effective tactic. During this, reproductive professionals will:
- Use a cryoprotective agent (CPA) to freeze the embryos. This fluid will protect the cells from ice crystals.
- Place the embryos in a special tank that is filled with liquid nitrogen. There, the embryos will freeze at exactly -196.1 ° Celsius.
To complete the IVF procedure, medical personnel will firstly remove the embryos from the tank. After that, the embryos are allowed to return to their original temperature. After the CPA is removed, the embryos are transferred into the patient’s uterus.
Why in Greece?
In the age of globalization and information, one might wonder: Why should I choose Greece of all places to complete a successful embryo cryopreservation cycle? There is a simple answer to this question: because in Greece, you can combine excellence and affordability without compromising quality.
Year after year, Greece has gained the top spot for IVF succession in Europe. Gyn Care IVF is equipped with cutting-edge technology, adhering to the highest of standards. Our world-renowned medical personnel understand the importance of a unique, personalised journey that is produced according to individual needs. Greece’s picturesque landscape concludes a perfect medical destination that will accomplish success, while also accommodating the emotional aspect of an IVF journey.
Parenthood is a beautiful, life-changing journey that every person deserves to embark on. We at Gyn Care IVF are here to assist and accompany you on every step of this journey. With state-of-the-art facilities, renowned medical professionals and a passion for making your wishes come true, Gyn Care IVF ensures an affordable, but qualitative experience. Gain all necessary information about IVF in Greece by contacting us via WhatsApp or E-Mail and enjoy your stay!