More embryos than recommended for transfer into the uterus may result from a single egg retrieval. Researchers have shown that transferring high numbers of embryos does not improve a woman’s chance of becoming pregnant, it only increases her chance of a multiple gestation.

Therefore, the couple must decide what to do with the remaining embryos. Our Centers offer couples the option of freezing and saving excess embryos, a procedure called cryopreservation. These embryos can be thawed and transferred to the woman’s uterus in a later cycle if an earlier IVF attempt fails, or if the couple wants a second child. Cryopreservation potentially reduces the cost and eliminates the egg collection step in subsequent cycles.