Embryo freezing is the vitrification and storage of embryos, most often at the blastocyst stage, so that they can be warmed and transferred in a later cycle rather than only in the cycle in which they were created. It is used when there are more suitable embryos than are being transferred fresh, when a freeze-all strategy is recommended, for example to reduce OHSS risk, or when genetic testing such as PGT-A is being carried out and results are awaited. Frozen embryos remain the couple's or individual's property under the consent and storage arrangements agreed with the ART clinic, in line with the ART (Regulation) Act, 2021 and its Rules. This is general information about India's ART and surrogacy framework and is not personalised legal advice. India legal information last reviewed: 9 September 2026.
Also known as: freezing embryos, embryo cryopreservation
Related India guides
Sources
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, with the ART (Regulation) Rules and subsequent amendments and notifications (indiacode.nic.in; artsurrogacy.gov.in)
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
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.