Embryo cryopreservation is the vitrification and storage of embryos created during an IVF/ICSI cycle that are not transferred fresh, so they can be used in a future frozen embryo transfer (FET). It is one of the most established fertility preservation methods, with well-studied survival and pregnancy rates after thaw, and is also used for people preserving fertility before medical treatment when they have a partner or are using donor sperm/eggs. Both (or all) partners with a legal interest in the embryos must give informed consent to freezing, storage duration, and future use or disposal, consistent with the ART (Regulation) Act, 2021 and clinic consent forms; consent can generally be withdrawn or amended within the rules the clinic and law set out.
Also known as: freezing embryos, embryo freezing, frozen embryos
Related India guides
Sources
- Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, with the ART (Regulation) Rules and subsequent amendments and notifications (indiacode.nic.in; artsurrogacy.gov.in)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.