Frozen Embryo Replacement (FER) Cycles

What does a Frozen Embryo Replacement Cycle involve?

In IVF treatment, many eggs are collected and the resulting embryos created. The best embryos are selected for embryo transfer with the number to be transferred predetermined by your consultant. The remaining embryos are cryopreserved (frozen) if deemed suitable (and both partners agree to this).

However not all clients have surplus embryos which may be suitable for the freezing process. The embryologist will keep you informed of the embryo development process.  Specialised medication protocol is prescribed by your consultant, to prepare the lining of the womb for implantation of the thawed embryo(s).


What are the benefits of embryo freezing?

The benefit of freezing these embryos can then be safely stored in liquid nitrogen for many years. In addition to this, an FER cycle is a relatively simple process and avoids the necessity for the female client to undergo the FSH stimulation to the ovaries and the Egg Collection procedure again.  It is also possible that there may be enough frozen embryos for more than one subsequent FER cycle.


Increased benefits using Vitrification

In early 2014 we introduced an alternative method for cryopreservation – known as Vitrification. This is a super-fast freezing method for cryopreserving Embryos. This method gives an increased survival rate and hence a better chance of a successful outcome.


Are there any disadvantages to embryo freezing?

Approximately 20% of embryos that are frozen do not survive the thawing process, in such cases this can be very upsetting to clients as they have been on medication in preparation for the transfer.


What is the Success rate for FER Cycles?

Galway Fertility Clinic has an average positive pregnancy rate of 30% and a take home baby rate of 20%, per FER treatment cycle.
