Fertility preservation means freezing and storing eggs, sperm or embryos so that they can be used in the future. Modern cryopreservation technologies make it possible to preserve reproductive cells before treatment that may harm fertility, or when you decide to postpone starting a family.
The Fertility Center of Baltic American Clinic in Vilnius freezes, stores and thaws eggs, sperm and embryos. Each patient receives an individual solution that takes into account age, state of health, medical indications and plans for the future.
Vitrification of eggs and embryos, which preserves reproductive cells at ultra-low temperatures.
Frozen reproductive cells can be used at a later stage of life.
A way to protect your reproductive health before cancer treatment or other treatment that may affect fertility.
Freezing, storage and thawing of reproductive cells and embryos.
When is fertility preservation worth considering?
- Before chemotherapy, radiotherapy or other treatment that may harm fertility.
- Before certain operations on the reproductive organs.
- With conditions that may reduce reproductive function.
- When you decide to postpone planning a pregnancy.
- During assisted reproduction, when some embryos are to be kept for a future transfer.
Egg freezing
Egg freezing preserves a woman’s eggs so that they can be used in assisted reproduction procedures in the future.
Usually ovarian stimulation is done first, in which medicines stimulate the growth of several follicles. Follicle development is monitored by ultrasound, and mature eggs are collected by puncture.
In the embryology laboratory, suitable eggs are frozen by vitrification and stored under special conditions.
In the future, thawed eggs can be fertilised using ICSI.
It is important to know that egg freezing does not guarantee a future pregnancy. Results depend on age at the time of freezing, the number of eggs preserved, their quality and other factors.
Sperm freezing
Sperm freezing may be recommended before treatment that may harm fertility or in other medically justified cases.
Before the procedure, semen and other necessary tests are done as needed. In the laboratory, the sperm is prepared, frozen and stored in special containers at ultra-low temperatures.
When needed, frozen sperm can be thawed and used for assisted reproduction procedures.
Embryo freezing
Embryo freezing is usually done during assisted reproduction when there are suitable embryos that are not planned to be transferred in the same treatment cycle.
In the embryology laboratory, embryos are frozen by vitrification and stored under special conditions. Later, according to the treatment plan, they can be thawed and transferred into the uterine cavity.
The freezing, storage and use of embryos are subject to the requirements of Lithuanian law in force.
Which fertility preservation services are provided?
- Egg freezing and storage.
- Sperm freezing and storage.
- Embryo freezing (vitrification) and storage.
- Extension of storage of frozen reproductive cells and embryos.
- Thawing of frozen eggs.
- Thawing of frozen sperm.
- Embryo thawing and transfer.
- Fertilisation of thawed eggs during assisted reproduction.
How to prepare for fertility preservation
A fertility specialist consultation is recommended first. The doctor assesses your reproductive health and discusses the options of the chosen method, the tests needed and the course of the procedures.
If egg freezing is planned, hormone and ultrasound tests and preparation for ovarian stimulation may be needed.
Before sperm freezing, you will receive individual instructions on collecting the sample and how to prepare.
If fertility preservation is planned before cancer treatment, it is important to come as early as possible so that the timing of procedures can be coordinated with your oncologist.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the best age to freeze eggs?
The number and quality of eggs usually decline with age, so eggs preserved at a younger age generally have greater reproductive potential. A fertility specialist can help assess your individual options.
Does egg freezing guarantee a pregnancy in the future?
No. Not all eggs survive thawing, are fertilised or develop into embryos suitable for transfer.
Does egg freezing reduce the chance of conceiving naturally?
The procedure itself usually should not significantly reduce future natural fertility, but it does not stop age-related changes in reproductive function.
Can sperm freezing reduce sperm quality?
Some sperm may lose viability during freezing and thawing. However, properly frozen sperm can be used for assisted reproduction procedures.
How long can frozen eggs, sperm and embryos be stored?
The storage period depends on the law in force, the medical circumstances and the terms of the storage agreement.
Can fertility be preserved before chemotherapy?
Often yes, but the options depend on the diagnosis, the planned treatment and the time available. The decision must be coordinated with your oncologist and a fertility specialist.
Can frozen embryos be used for a later pregnancy?
Yes, if the embryos are suitable for thawing and transfer and the applicable legal and medical requirements are met.
Fertility preservation prices
The price depends on the chosen procedure, the tests and medicines needed and the storage period. Freezing, storage extension and thawing services are paid for separately according to the clinic’s price list in force.