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Fertility Glossary

Embryos after relationship breakdown

Both people's consent is normally needed to use stored embryos.

Canadian law & regulation

If a relationship ends, the consent recorded at storage governs what may happen, and consent to use can generally be withdrawn before transfer. Disputes have been litigated provincially, so recording clear intentions at the outset matters, and legal advice is worthwhile.

Also known as: divorce and embryos, separation and embryos

Sources

  • Health Canada — Assisted Human Reproduction Act and Reimbursement Related to Assisted Human Reproduction Regulations

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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