 "Delaying parenthood? Here's what to know about embryo freezing options")
As more couples plan parenthood around careers, health and personal timelines, embryo freezing has emerged as a reliable way to safeguard future fertility. Doctors note that frozen embryos often result in higher success rates, making the method increasingly appealing to couples planning ahead. Fertility specialists also say the procedure has become a routine part of IVF, and is increasingly used by those wishing to delay pregnancy for personal, medical or professional reasons.
How embryo freezing works
Embryo freezing is a fertility treatment that involves fertilising eggs in a lab to create embryos, which are then frozen for future use.
“Embryo freezing is basically the process of freezing a fertilised egg, post its development stage. Meanwhile egg freezing is done for unfertilised but mature eggs,” says Dr Navina Singh, fertility specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Mumbai.
The technology behind both methods is similar. Advanced freezing techniques lock the cell structure instantly, preventing ice crystal formation. However, embryo freezing offers a clearer picture of viability.
“Embryo freezing offers a better success rate per cycle because its development and viability are already known,” she explains. Dr Hetal Parekh, IVF Specialist and Senior Consultant at Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai, adds that because embryos are assessed before freezing, “they often tolerate the freezing and thawing process better than eggs,” making them a preferred option for IVF or married couples postponing pregnancy.
Egg freezing, on the other hand, offers flexibility because no sperm is needed at the time.
Also read: Understanding egg-freezing: A smart option for delayed motherhood
Who is advised to freeze embryos?
Embryo freezing is recommended only when both partners are prepared to fertilise eggs immediately. It is most suitable for women in their late 20s and early 30s, when egg quality is typically optimal.
Doctors also freeze surplus high-quality embryos during IVF, which can be used in later cycles. Embryo freezing is advised for women with declining AMH, couples who want fertility preservation, or those planning delayed parenthood. It helps ensure viable embryos are available later, reducing the risk of secondary infertility.
Tests required before freezing embryos
Women typically undergo AMH testing, hormonal profiling (FSH, LH, estradiol, TSH, prolactin), and an ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve and uterine health. Men require a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility and morphology.
Dr Parekh notes that both partners should also undergo Hb electrophoresis. “When the test results are positive for thalassaemia minor, embryo testing may be done to prevent thalassaemia major,” she explains.
Additional infectious disease screening (HIV, Hepatitis B & C, syphilis) is mandatory.
“These tests help personalise treatment and provide the best circumstances for the formation of healthy embryos,” says Dr Singh.
Step-by-step: From stimulation to vitrification
- The process begins with ovarian stimulation using hormone injections for 10–14 days, followed by regular scans.
- Next is egg retrieval, a short procedure, conducted under sedation.
- During fertilisation, eggs and sperm are combined through IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
- The resulting embryos are then cultured in controlled lab conditions until they reach the blastocyst stage.
- Finally, vitrification rapidly freezes the embryos to ensure high survival rates during thawing.
Vitrification allows embryos to stay viable for long periods, potentially even 10–20 years, with success rates largely unaffected if storage conditions are consistent.
How many embryos should couples freeze?
Experts freeze only embryos that meet strict criteria for cell structure, symmetry, growth and blastocyst quality. Most specialists recommend freezing three to four good-quality blastocysts to maximise the chance of at least one live birth. Older women or those with diminished reserves may need more. Dr Parekh notes the ideal number depends on age:
Under 35: 4–6 blastocysts
Above 35: 6–8 blastocysts
Costs and legal considerations in India
A full cycle, including IVF, embryo culture, freezing and the first year of storage, costs ₹1,80,000-₹2,00,000 at many clinics. After the first year, clinics typically apply an annual storage fee, depending on the number of embryos frozen and a clinic’s package and infrastructure. Embryo freezing usually costs ₹25,000–₹35,000, and annual storage charges are ₹20,000–₹30,000.
Under India’s ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) Act, both partners must jointly consent to storage and future use. “The ownership of the embryo is legally shared between both the partners and clinics cannot use, discard or donate the embryos without explicit consent from both,” says Dr Singh.
Ahead of embryo freezing, couples must also decide how their embryos may be used in the future. As these embryos represent potential pregnancies, they carry significant emotional and ethical weight, making thoughtful, informed consent essential.
Ultimately, doctors say informed decision-making is key. With transparent counselling, clear consent and realistic expectations, embryo freezing can serve as a dependable way for couples to protect their reproductive future.
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This report is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.