Embryo Freezing Process
Step.1
Ovulation Induction
Cycle Day 1–3
Begin ovulation stimulation using hormone injections or oral medication.
Compliance affects the egg retrieval outcome:
Follow your doctor’s instructions for medication
- Drink over 2000 c.c. of water daily
- Doctor may arrange blood tests and transvaginal ultrasound based on your condition.
Step.2
Follicle Maturity Monitoring
Cycle Day 6–12
(approx. 3 clinic visits)
Return to the clinic for blood hormone analysis and transvaginal ultrasound to assess follicle size. This helps determine follicle maturity and the best timing for egg retrieval.
※Note: Avoid strenuous exercise about a week into the cycle to prevent ovarian torsion!
Step.3
Egg Retrieval
Cycle Day 12–15
34–36 hours before retrieval, trigger shot must be administered exactly on schedule (possibly during early morning hours).
Egg retrieval is performed under general anesthesia using ultrasound guidance.
The procedure duration varies depending on the number of eggs. Observation for 1–2 hours post-op, then you can return home. No hospitalization required, but take the day off to rest.
※Note: Your next period may arrive approximately one week after egg retrieval.
On retrieval day, the male partner should collect semen via masturbation into a sterile container. If collecting at home, deliver it to the clinic within 1 hour at room temperature, or use the clinic’s collection room. (To obtain high-quality sperm, avoid smoking, alcohol, infection, fatigue, and abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days prior.)
Step.4
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
The retrieved mature eggs are placed in a culture dish and mixed with processed sperm to allow natural fertilization. If sperm quality is low, ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) may be used to enhance fertilization rates.
Step.5
Embryo Culture
When the fertilized egg divides into 2–8 cells, it is called an embryo. By day 5–7, it becomes a blastocyst and is frozen for storage.
Embryo Freezing
According to Taiwan’s “Assisted Reproduction Act,” embryos may be stored for up to 10 years. If the couple’s marriage is annulled, dissolved, ends in divorce, or one party passes away, the embryos must be destroyed.
