Chapter 9 Slow Freezing and Thawing of Human Cleavage Stage Embryos

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Cryobiology
• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Background:

• Embryo cryopreservation is crucial for modern Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).
• It enables reduced multiple embryo transfers, mitigating risks of multiple pregnancies.
• High cumulative pregnancy rates are maintained from single oocyte collection cycles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a simple slow freezing protocol for human early cleavage stage embryos.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of this method in maintaining embryo viability and implantation potential post-thaw.

Main Methods:

• A slow freezing technique specifically for human early cleavage stage embryos.
• Detailed description of the cryopreservation procedure.

Main Results:

• The described slow freezing procedure yields a high survival rate for thawed embryos.
• Embryos retain their implantation potential after the cryopreservation and thawing process.

Conclusions:

• Slow freezing is an effective method for preserving human early cleavage stage embryos.
• This technique supports responsible clinical practice in ART by maintaining high success rates.