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Fertility Glossary

Embryo disposition

Deciding what happens to embryos you will not use.

Canadian law & regulation

The usual choices are continued storage, donation to another family, donation to research where a programme exists and consent allows, or thawing without transfer. Each requires specific consent, and both partners' consent where two people created the embryos. There is no deadline to decide, but storage fees continue, and clinics need current contact details.

Also known as: what to do with leftover embryos, discarding embryos

Sources

  • Health Canada — Assisted Human Reproduction Act and Reimbursement Related to Assisted Human Reproduction Regulations
  • Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS)

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

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