What is embryo banking?

Embryo banking is the process of creating and storing multiple embryos through in vitro fertilization (IVF) for future use. Although multiple embryos may be generated from a single cycle of IVF, embryo banking often involves more than one cycle of ovarian stimulation (medications and egg retrieval) to maximize the chances of reaching a future reproductive goal. This strategy can be a good match for a variety of family-building plans that are impacted by age-related fertility decline including a planned delay of a first child, a “back up” plan for a second baby down the road or as a primary strategy for multiple children over many years in the future.