Fertility preservation may retain reproductive options for the future. Depending on the situation, eggs, sperm or embryos may be stored. Preserving biological material does not guarantee successful future use, pregnancy or live birth. ASRM: patient information on egg freezing.
A decision based on your situation
It may be appropriate to discuss preservation before treatment that could affect reproductive function or when considering postponing pregnancy. In the context of cancer, consultation before treatment begins and coordination with the treating team are important. Safety and urgency of care should be part of the decision. NCI: female fertility and cancer treatment.
Options depend on health, available time and personal goals. Collecting eggs usually requires stimulation and monitoring; embryo freezing requires fertilising eggs with sperm. Semen freezing has different preparation requirements. Ask for individual instructions on tests, medication and collection; the number of visits and duration are not the same for everyone. ASRM: preservation for medical indications, 2026.
Storage also needs a plan
How long material is stored and whether it can be used are different questions. Before deciding, request written information on where it will be stored, for how long, renewal costs, and the consents and instructions required for its use or disposition. Keep your contact details up to date. Future availability depends on storage conditions, agreements and the relevant assessment. ASRM: consent and disposition of material, 2026.
Storage requires specialised facilities, monitoring and protocols. Safety measures reduce risks but cannot eliminate every possibility of losing material. Ask how these risks are explained and how incidents are addressed. ASRM: cryostorage in the laboratory, 2020.
Prepare for your consultation
Request a plan distinguishing collection, storage and the treatment required for later use, together with their limitations and costs.
See egg freezing, eggs versus embryos and sperm freezing. This is educational information and does not replace an individual assessment.