Fertility Care in Northern Ireland
Embryos not transferred to the womb during a fresh treatment cycle may be frozen for transfer in a subsequent treatment cycle
No additional cost during first year storage. See our full fee schedule.
Monthly fee required after one year free storage.
Many patients undergoing IVF and ICSI treatment have more embryos available than are required for transfer. Embryos not transferred to the womb during a fresh treatment cycle may be frozen (cryo-preserved), providing that the embryo quality meets the laboratory criteria. These embryos can be thawed for transfer in a subsequent treatment cycle, known as frozen embryo transfer (FET). About 70% of all frozen embryos survive the thawing process.
According to the regulations, embryos can be frozen for up to ten years, although this can be extended in exceptional circumstances. The results following the transfer of frozen-thawed embryos depend on the number and quality of embryos available as well as the age of the woman. However, fresh embryo replacement generally has a higher success rate.
