What to Do with Unused Frozen Embryos

As In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has become more common, the number of unused frozen embryos in storage has significantly increased. According to the Society of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (SART), there are now more than 400,000 frozen embryos stored in over 430 fertility clinics across the U.S. Most of these embryos—88.2%—are kept frozen for potential future attempts at pregnancy, but the remaining 11.8% are stored for other reasons, such as lost contact with patients, abandonment, or divorce.

This growing number of frozen embryos raises important questions for couples about what to do with embryos they may not intend to use. To address these concerns, RESOLVE, the national infertility association, is conducting an online survey to assess public opinion on the matter.

Options for Unused Frozen Embryos

Many couples are unsure of what to do with unused embryos once they have completed their family-building journey. While some may choose to keep the embryos frozen for future use, others may be considering alternative options, such as:

• Embryo Donation: Couples who no longer wish to use their embryos for their own pregnancies can choose to donate them to another couple struggling with infertility. This option can provide hope for those who are unable to conceive with their own eggs and sperm.
• Donation for Research: Some couples may consider donating their unused embryos to scientific research, contributing to advances in reproductive health and medical science. However, as Dr. Hummel points out, this option is less frequently chosen.
• Discarding Embryos: For couples who decide they do not want to use or donate their embryos, discarding them is another option, although it may be a difficult emotional decision.
• Continued Storage: Some couples opt to keep their embryos frozen indefinitely, whether for potential future use or due to uncertainty about what to do next.

Encouraging Informed Decisions

Dr. Hummel of San Diego Fertility Center notes that it’s not uncommon for former IVF patients to hesitate when it comes to donating embryos for research. However, he encourages couples to consider donating their embryos to other families if they no longer plan to use them. Embryo donation can be a compassionate way to help another couple achieve their dream of parenthood.

With RESOLVE’s survey, the organization aims to raise awareness and provide education about the various options available for unused embryos, helping couples make informed decisions that align with their values and goals.

If you have unused frozen embryos and are unsure about your next steps, we encourage you to consult with your fertility specialist at San Diego Fertility Center. Our team is here to guide you through your options and help you make the best decision for your unique situation.