How long can human embryos be kept frozen?

How long can frozen embryos be kept?

The first thing to say is that frozen embryos, once vitrified, "do not expire" . This means that the storage time , if the temperature is constant, is indefinite . We are, therefore, faced with an alternative to the conception of long term . It is perfectly possible to freeze embryos and wait 10 years, provided certain formalities are met.

Precisely, the fact that embryo preservation and selection techniques have been perfected has favored this circumstance. And, if until a few decades ago the cryopreservation It seemed like an eccentricity to us, but today it is common practice in assisted reproduction centers.

The limits, therefore, cannot be indicated in technical matters, because they have advanced a lot. They must be established, rather, in relation to current legislation, which in Spain is defined. It is advisable to know it because, otherwise, you may encounter problems when choosing assisted reproduction formulas. Just as in a genetic testing , everything related to in vitro fertilization is strictly regulated in Spain.

The Law 14/2006 , of May 26, on assisted reproduction techniques It indicates, in Spain, how, when, and for how long embryos can be frozen for reproductive purposes. It's important to know because there are limits for health reasons, but also for ethical reasons. Let's see:

1. Parental consent

He principle of consent The consent of both parents is essential for the embryos to be preserved. This must come from both parents, in the case of couples, or from the mother, in the case of donated fertilization.

In principle, There is no expiration of that consent because embryos can be preserved indefinitely. However, there is an obligation to renew that consent Every two years , by both parties if necessary. What would happen, for example, if a couple separated? One of the parties could object to the preservation of these embryos for reproductive purposes. At any time before the embryo is implanted in the uterus, the other party can object to the embryo's use and order its destruction.

This point is crucial because data retention only expires if consent expires. And since that consent can be revoked at any time, issues such as the parents' relationship are crucial. Therefore, it's very important to keep this point in mind.

There is another question, which is the equivalent of silence . If the reproduction center attempts to renew consent twice and it is not possible, the Embryos become the center's responsibility . And, as long as it's not for profit, they can dispose of them however they want. Therefore, as part of family planning, it's essential to understand these details. This way, you'll have a clearer understanding of the limits.

2. Embryo donation

The embryo donation It can be made at any time, provided there is consent from both parties. This donation, however, must always be altruistic and there can be no profit motive in who does it.

The purpose of donating frozen embryos can be twofold. On the one hand, to facilitate reproduction in another person or couple; the second possibility is for scientific research purposes. Let's examine the main differences:

• Reproductive purpose: Frozen embryo donation is done so that another couple can have children. To do this, the embryo would be thawed and implanted in the uterus of another woman. Remember, however, that there must be not only authorization, but also an explicit instruction.
• Scientific research: Donating for scientific research allows for the discovery of solutions to reproductive disorders or problems.

In any case, this donation will always be made in writing and in accordance with the provisions of Law 14/2006. And it will always be made with a altruistic purpose .

3. Destruction of embryos

Finally, embryos can be destroyed at any time while frozen. To do so, consent to preservation must be revoked, either at the request of one or both parties.

What are the most common cases in which destruction is requested? Firstly, that there has already been fertilization , so the purpose had already been fulfilled. The second possibility is that the couple separates and one (or both) of the parties no longer wishes to have children together. And finally, it is perfectly possible that the couple reconsiders their intention to have children.

Once again, the focus of decision-making will be on the consent of the people who gave it to them at the time. If they order its destruction, they can do so at any time.

Reasons to preserve frozen embryos

The truth is that motherhood, for various reasons, is being delayed more and more. And improved reproductive techniques can help us improve our work. Want to know more? Here are some tips. reasons :

1. Postponing the intention to conceive a child . Perhaps at a certain point you don't want to have children, but freezing embryos would allow you to keep the genetic material in good condition for the future.
2. Maintain the possibility of having children . Remember that fertility declines after the age of 35, and even more so after the age of 40. For this reason, having frozen embryos can be an option for conceiving later. If there is a fertility problem, infertility , this is an alternative.
3. Avoid genetic diseases . Today, embryo selection techniques exist that can substantially reduce the chance of offspring having congenital diseases. This is another alternative.

Therefore, there are many reasons to keep embryos frozen. But above all, keep in mind that this period can be longer or shorter, depending on your needs.

In summary…

Assisted fertilization opens up new avenues and regulations, and the case of frozen embryos, along with sperm and eggs, is paradigmatic. Genotics It will allow you to check your genetic compatibility and consider reproductive options. Check out all the available tests!