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Fertility Glossary

Storage period

How long eggs, sperm or embryos may lawfully be stored.

UK regulation & HFEA

Since July 2022 UK law allows storage for up to 55 years for many patients, provided consent is renewed at set intervals. Your clinic will contact you about renewal; check the HFEA for current rules.

Also known as: storage limit, 55-year storage

Related United Kingdom guides

Sources

Last reviewed: 23 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

Storage renewal

Confirming you want stored material kept for a further period.

Consent to storage

Written agreement for eggs, sperm or embryos to be frozen and stored.

Storage fee

The ongoing charge for keeping eggs, sperm or embryos frozen.

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