For single parents, same-sex couples, or those with infertility issues, in vitro fertilization (IVF) can help them start a family. During the IVF procedure, you may have one or more embryos leftover after experiencing a successful transfer. Many people wonder about their options for unused embryos stored on ice, also known as cryopreservation. Discover some possible choices below. 

A Guide to Using Leftover Embryos After IVF

1. Use Them in the Future

Even after a successful IVF cycle, you may still want another baby down the road. If you’ve already undergone infertility treatments, you may need to follow the IVF procedure again in the future to conceive. In this case, having leftover embryos on hand can be useful. You can keep your embryos frozen until you’re ready for another child. 

2. Donate Them to a Couple in Need

Some couples or individuals who know they won’t try for any more children may choose to donate their embryos. In doing so, you could help another couple who has not been able to produce healthy embryos. You can pursue either a closed or open donation. In the former, there will be no contact among the parties, so you won’t know who received your donation. In the latter, you can meet the recipient and maintain contact throughout IVF procedures if you choose to. ​​​​​​

3. Donate Them to Research

Fertility clinics that have their embryology labs typically use donated embryos to test out new protocols or to train their staff. Some couples may find that this is an option for them as they feel that they are assisting other famlies with information derived from research protocols on embryos.

4. Dispose of Them

A final option to consider is having your embryos thawed and disposed of. This will either be performed at your fertility clinic or the cryopreservation bank. Policies vary by location, and some may also give the embryos to you, depending on your wishes. You don’t have to decide what you’d like to do with your embryos right away. You can keep them in cryopreservation for as long as you see fit and make the best decision when you feel ready.

If you’re trying to conceive and are exploring treatments to help you start a family, contact the Diamond Institute for Infertility & Menopause in Essex County, NJ. With more than 40 years of experience and a broad range of solutions for infertility, Dr. Matan Yemini and Dr. Ndidimaka Onwubalili will walk you through every step of the IVF procedure. Learn more about their services by visiting their website. Call (973) 761-5600 to schedule a consultation.