Becoming an Embryo Donor

Patients who were fortunate enough to have completed their family building from previous IVF cycles face a complex decision regarding the future of their cryopreserved (frozen) embryos. It is often difficult to determine the best option considering that each person has a unique outlook on what the term ‘embryo’ means to them. However, we recognize that storing embryos indefinitely can be costly and this continual expense is often a burden.

FPNC offers four choices for unused embryos. Couples can choose to:

1. Donate frozen embryos to someone looking to build a family
   
   
2. Donate frozen embryos to research
   IVF tissue banks accept donated frozen embryos for infertility, genetic, general health, and stem cell research. Although the embryos are used up during the research process, their existence contributes to important medical knowledge which eventually leads to the development of life-saving therapies.
   
   
3. Discard frozen embryos
   The embryos will be thawed to room temperature to end the metabolic processes that drive cell division and embryonic growth, then discarded.
   
   
4. Store frozen embryos indefinitely
   Patients have the option to transfer their frozen embryos to a long-term cryostorage facility to store indefinitely. FPNC can provide information on these facilities and instructions on how to transfer embryos.

FPNC is committed to helping patients as they consider what is best for them. Please contact our Donation Coordinator, Ali Gamm, if you would like further information on the options we offer.

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