Overview
What if you could hit pause, not just on time but on life’s toughest what-ifs? We are talking about the uncertain path of parenthood, where treatments, timing, or sometimes, fate do not always go as planned. This is where cryopreservation steps in, with the ability to preserve not only hope but also life. This article compiles all the information about cryopreservation, its risks, how it works, and related questions. So, let’s get started!
What is Cryopreservation?
Cryopreservation is a medical procedure that involves freezing eggs, sperm, and embryos, preserving them for future use. By freezing, we do not mean freezing in ice; instead, all these samples are frozen at a temperature of around –196°C in liquid nitrogen, which stops all biological processes inside the cells. This stoppage preserves the energy required to keep these cells healthy and viable for years to come.
In recent times, cryopreservation has not only been a beacon of hope for many couples but also for individuals wanting to buy some time to start their family, for any reason. All in all, cryopreservation is like a confirmatory ticket in the uncertain journey of parenthood, and hence is gaining popularity.
How Cryopreservation Works
Cryopreservation is a complex process that requires precise timing and monitoring of the cellular stage in a laboratory setting. The cryopreservation process begins with the collection of egg, sperm, or embryo samples through standard procedures in fertility care. After obtaining the samples, a protective solution, referred to as cryoprotectant, is applied to the samples, so the cells do not get damaged by ice crystal formation during the freezing process.
Cryopreservation is typically done with two different methods, namely:
- Vitrification, a newer and advanced method, which freezes the processed sample immediately with liquid nitrogen into a glass-like state, bypassing ice crystal formation, and eventually increasing the survival rates.
- Slow Freezing is another method for freezing the cells, but an older one. It includes cooling the sample steadily in a freezing machine, then transferring it to liquid nitrogen tanks for storage.
The frozen specimens can be preserved for many years and are only thawed in a controlled laboratory setting when requested by the patient or when the fertility procedure, such as IVF, ICSI, or IUI, requires their use.
Why Choose Cryopreservation?
Choosing cryopreservation is not only a very personal decision but also an empowering one. The process can be a great help and a beacon of hope for:
- Individuals needing medical treatments : Certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy, radiation, or some surgeries, can negatively impact fertility. Cryopreservation can help individuals who need such treatments preserve their fertility.
- Those with advancing age : As we know, fertility declines with an increase in age; people without a partner can also opt for cryopreservation to preserve their sperm or eggs, eventually preserving their fertility.
- Couples Undergoing IVF : In Vitro Fertilisation has a lower success rate in its first attempt; therefore, preserving the remaining embryos during embryo transplant can reduce the need for repeated stimulation and other steps of IVF.
- Those choosing to delay parenthood : Cryopreservation can provide freedom from parenting responsibilities to couples or individuals with career goals, academic pursuits, or other commitments, without the fear of age-related deadlines.
- People with medical and genetic conditions : Certain medical and genetic conditions cause a higher risk of fertility issues in individuals. Cryopreservation can also benefit individuals like these.
- People in risk-prone occupations : Individuals employed in high-risk occupations, such as defence and aviation, or involved in extreme sports, may also choose to freeze their reproductive cells as a preventive measure.
Risks & Complications of Cryopreservation
Provided the outstanding merits, there are a few less significant risks and complications associated with cryopreservation. Although this process is totally risk-free, below are among the most frequently seen complaints:
- Although very rare with advanced techniques of vitrification, some samples may not survive the freeze-thaw cycle of cryopreservation.
- The protective agent used, or cryoprotectant, poses a risk to the integrity of the sample if the wrong concentration or exposure time is employed.
- Failure to hold a successful pregnancy with thawed samples, even with multiple attempts.
- High storage costs, which vary depending on the number of years a sample is stored.
The Future of Unused Preserves
Preserving embryos, eggs, or sperm does not compel you to use them in future. That is, there can be instances when these samples are not used at all. Deciding what to do with such samples is extremely personal and your choice, but here are the options an individual can choose from:
- The first thing a patient can do with unused preserved samples is to let doctors destroy them, provided this is done in accordance with proper ethical and clinical protocols.
- For patients with successful IVF, they can choose to retain frozen eggs, embryos, or sperm for future use for a second child.
- Patients can also donate their unused samples to couples struggling with any phase of fertility procedures and bring joy to someone else’s life.
- With consent, the unused samples can also be used for research and scientific purposes.
Conclusion
Finally, it can be concluded that cryopreservation is not just a scientific wonder but also a light of hope for future generations. It allows couples and individuals to embark on the journey to parenthood on their own terms. So, whether it is career goals, academic ones, or personal reasons, cryopreservation is here to help everyone. Because it is a process where a second chance is a thing.
Common Questions Asked
What is the process of cryopreservation?
Cryopreservation is a procedure where sperm, eggs, or embryos are frozen and preserved at very low temperatures to prolong fertility for future use.
Is cryopreservation a safe procedure?
Yes, cryopreservation is a popular and safe procedure. This is especially true when it is performed by specialists using the new vitrification techniques.
How long can the samples be stored?
If samples are stored using correct cryogenic processing, they can be stored for years without any deterioration in quality.
Who might want to think about cryopreservation?
Anyone who is going through fertility treatment, those who are going to have medical procedures that hinder fertility, and those who simply want to delay parenthood.
Does the freezing process compromise the quality of the egg or embryo?
Modern vitrification techniques assist in limiting the amount of ice that forms. This results in high survival and fertilisation rates after thawing.
Can I use frozen embryos from my previous cycle after completing an IVF cycle?
Yes, you can use frozen embryos from a previous or other storage opportunities in a future cycle. You will not have to go through stimulation again.
What is the cost of cryopreservation?
Costs vary by clinic, length of storage, and what type of sample you are preserving.
How do I decide if cryopreservation is right for me?
Speak with a specialist who can assess your needs and recommend the most suitable cryopreservation plan.