Embryo banking
What is embryo banking?
Embryo banking primarily refers to the generation and cryopreservation of embryo(s) for subsequent use with a fresh embryo transfer in the stimulation cycle. However, in a wider sense embryo banking or embryo accumulation also refers to a series of successive IVF cycles performed in a short period of time with the aim of generating several embryos.
Who are the best candidates for embryo banking?
The best candidates for embryo banking are low responders (who are expected to produce three or fewer eggs) or patients in their 40s undergoing PGT-A cycles. For these patients it is vital to obtain a suitable number of embryos in a timely manner.
What is the process of embryo banking?
For embryo banking the process is same as for a standard IVF cycle and involves ovarian stimulation, egg collection, fertilization and embryo culture. In the case of PGT-A testing, resulting blastocysts are usually sampled and frozen for subsequent use. A next stimulation cycle could be started after a short break (e.g. one normal menstrual cycle) or a few days after egg collection (double ovarian stimulation). Several cycles (up to 3-5) could thus be performed depending on each patient’s motivation and budget.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of double ovarian stimulation?
Patients opting for separate IVF cycles often abandon treatment after their first attempt has failed. The chief advantage of embryo banking is reduced dropout for those who manage to complete both stimulation phases. Undergoing several stimulations could result in more eggs, more embryos, and ultimately a higher probability of success. Embryo banking is a complex and long treatment; therefore, it could be hard on patients, both physically and mentally. It is mandatory to freeze embryos created from each egg collection. Clinic pricing could represent another crucial factor in whether patients choose to undergo individual or multiple treatment cycles.
What are the side-effects and risks of double ovarian stimulation?
Embryo banking does not have significantly increased rate of side effects and risks than conventional treatment. However, it is a complex and long treatment; therefore, it could be hard on patients, both physically and mentally. It is also mandatory to freeze embryos created from each egg collection and later patients need to undergo a frozen-thawed embryo transfer.
What is the success rate of embryo banking?
Success rates from embryo banking are expected to be higher than from one treatment only, although it depends on female age and other patient characteristics. Embryo banking or accumulation is a protocol that could be especially beneficial for low-responders and patients needing PGT cycles or fertility preservation.