Cryopreservation
Cryopreservation is a process that preserves living cells, tissues, and other biological materials by cooling them to extremely low temperatures. This process allows biological material to be stored for long periods while maintaining its genetic integrity.
Cryopreservation plays an important role in preserving fertility. It is often used with fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). During procedures like IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injections (ICSI), eggs are extracted and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos, some of which can be frozen for future use. In recent years, cryopreservation has revolutionised reproductive healthcare, enabling people to freeze their eggs or embryos for later use.

Why Freeze an Embryo?
Embryo preservation, also known as embryo cryopreservation, is a fertility preservation process that enables individuals to freeze their embryos for future use. There are various reasons why someone would choose to freeze embryos, including:
- Preserving Fertility: The cryopreservation technique helps individuals maintain their fertility for future family planning.
- Fertility Preservation for Cancer or Other Health Conditions: Treatments like chemotherapy or radiation for conditions such as cancer can lead to infertility. Cryopreservation provides an option to preserve fertility before starting such treatments.
- Delaying Pregnancy: People may choose to delay pregnancy for various reasons, such as building financial stability, pursuing career goals, finding the right partner, or simply deciding to have children later in life.
- Donating Embryos: Many individuals donate preserved embryos to individuals or couples struggling with infertility. Some embryos are use in scientific research.
Difference Between Egg Freezing and Embryo Freezing
It is important to note that cryopreservation methods can be used for both egg freezing and embryo freezing. Egg freezing is the process of extracting and preserving unfertilised eggs for future use. This is a suitable option for single women, as it does not require sperm. Embryo freezing, on the other hand, involves freezing fertilised eggs. It is ideal for couples who wish to delay pregnancy.
Step-by-step Process of Cryopreservation
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Step 1: Cell Preservation
The first step in cryopreservation involves preparing cells to withstand freezing temperatures. It prevents cell damage caused by freezing and thawing. This is achieved by introducing cryoprotective agents (CPAs), such as glycerol and dimethyl sulfoxide. The cells are then placed in cryogenic freezing containers designed to withstand extremely low temperatures.
Step 2: Cryoprotectant Equilibration
Homogenisation and mixing techniques replace the water in the cells with CPAs. This reduces the formation of ice crystals during the freezing process. Cryoprotectant equilibration is also performed before freezing.
Step 3: Cooling
After cell preservation and cryoprotectant equilibration, the cells are cooled down to cryogenic temperatures using liquid nitrogen or controlled-rate freezers. This gradual cooling process prevents ice crystal formation, which can damage the cell membrane.
Step 4: Thawing
When cells and embryos are needed, specialised techniques are used to thaw them in a controlled manner. This minimises potential damage and maintains their viability. Once thawed, CPAs are removed, and the embryos are ready for implantation in the patient.

Benefits of Cryopreservation
Cryopreservation offers numerous advantages, particularly for individuals who wish to delay pregnancy or face challenges related to fertility. It is beneficial for individuals who are:
- Of advanced age
- Dealing with infertility issues
- Prioritising education or career goals
- Undergoing medical treatments that may impact infertility
- Awaiting the right partner
Challenges and Risks of Cryopreservation
Cryopreservation involves several challenges and risks, including:
- Damage to eggs or embryos during the process
- Not all embryos may survive or remain viable after freezing
- No guarantee of pregnancy, even after successful embryo implantation
- Increased risk of medical complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia
- Risk of multiple pregnancies if more than one embryo is implanted
Why Choose Us?

Dr Kamaraj and his team of doctors have extensive experience in cryopreservation techniques. KHPL offers high-quality care, strict safety standards, and personalised treatment plans, providing patients peace of mind while preserving their fertility.

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FAQ
What is Cryopreservation?
Cryopreservation is a process in which biological material is frozen and preserved. In reproductive medicine, this involves freezing the eggs or embryos for future use.
What is the optimal age for egg freezing?
Research shows that women typically reach their peak fertility around the age of 30. Freezing eggs around this age is recommended, as fertility tends to decline with age.
Is the cryopreservation process painful?
The process is usually performed under anaesthesia so the patient won’t feel any pain. However, some patients may experience soreness, mild pain, or cramping after the procedure.
Meet Our Doctor

Dr. T. Kamaraj
Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj
Infertility Specialist