What is Vitrification for egg and embryo freezing?

Vitrification also known as the instant freezing technique has replaced the old slow freeze technology for both egg and embryo freezing. Vitrification has greatly improved egg/embryo thaw survival rates as well as increased embryo implantation rates. Vitrification has been so advantageous that most programs now are freezing all day 5/day 6 embryos and transferring them in a subsequent cryo cycle where estrogen and progesterone levels mimic those of nature. This technique has been associated with higher pregnancy rates, higher birth weights (almost a pound) and a lower incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. If you are considering an IVF program make sure they are using the vitrification freezing technique for both eggs and embryos.

Kevin L. Winslow, M.D.
Director for Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine