Understanding IVF & Cryopreservation
IVF Process Overview
In every IVF procedure, fertilization is conducted manually in laboratory facilities, allowing doctors to initiate human reproduction outside the body. This process creates embryos that must be carefully transferred to the woman's womb for development.
Natural vs. IVF Implantation
While natural fertilization allows automatic embryo implantation, IVF requires manual transfer. This necessitates careful embryo handling and preservation to maintain viability between procedures.
Cryopreservation Need
We employ cryopreservation technology to maintain embryos at ultra-low temperatures (-196°C), preventing cellular changes while ensuring long-term biological stability.
What is Embryo Cryopreservation?
Embryo Cryopreservation involves storing healthy embryos in liquid nitrogen chambers, maintaining them in biological stasis. This process:
- Preserves fertility potential for future pregnancies
- Halts metabolic activity while preventing cellular damage
- Allows safe thawing and use years later
AFIC's Cryopreservation Approach
At AFIC, we utilize advanced cryopreservation techniques to ensure embryo viability across various scenarios:
- Short-term storage for immediate treatment cycles
- Long-term banking in our Embryo Bank
- Specialized preservation for donor programs
Our Cryopreservation Process
Oocyte Retrieval & Selection
Multiple oocytes are retrieved and screened for optimal health before fertilization.
Laboratory Fertilization
Selected eggs are fertilized with sperm in controlled lab conditions to create zygotes.
Embryo Development
72-hour monitoring from single-cell zygote to 8-cell morula stage.
Quality Assessment
Genetic screening and viability analysis to select superior embryos.
Why Cryopreservation?
Preserve surplus embryos for future IVF attempts, particularly valuable if initial cycles face miscarriage or implantation failure.
Safeguard embryos during unexpected reproductive system injuries requiring immediate treatment.
Delay transfer when uterine conditions require additional preparation or medical intervention.
Enable long-term storage for donated embryos helping other couples achieve parenthood.