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Fertility Glossary

Embryo arrest

Embryos stopping development before reaching the blastocyst stage.

Eggs, sperm & embryos

Arrest usually reflects intrinsic problems in the egg or embryo chromosomes rather than a laboratory failure, and it becomes more common with age. Repeated total arrest prompts a review of stimulation, sperm factors, laboratory conditions and genetics.

Also known as: embryos stopped growing, developmental arrest

Sources

  • ESHRE guidance (used where Canadian wording is unavailable)

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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