Unwanted Frozen Embryos

    Embryos are created through a process called In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF). This procedure begins with a successful egg retrieval from the mother, which is mixed with the patient’s partner’s sperm. The healthiest of the embryos are implanted into the mother’s womb while the left over embryos are usually preserved in a process called “cryopreservation”. Cryopreservation is a process in which embryos are soaked in cryoprotectant, a solution used to protect biological tissues from freezing damage. Afterwards, liquid nitrogen is injected into these embryos to lower the temperature to suitable freezing levels. If properly done, embryos can remain frozen for well over a decade. However, there are many couples who have completed their family but still have extra frozen embryos in storage. What can they do? The options are very limited.