Embryo freezing is one of the most valuable aspects of an IVF cycle. When good-quality embryos remain after a fresh transfer, freezing them preserves your options for future treatment without starting from scratch.
At Aria, embryo freezing is an integral part of how we care for patients and plan for long-term success.
After fertilisation, embryos are cultured in our laboratory for up to five days. Any good-quality embryos not used in the fresh transfer are frozen using vitrification – the same ultra-rapid freezing technique used for eggs – and stored securely. Frozen embryos can be stored for years and used in a future frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle.
A freeze-all cycle is when every embryo from your IVF cycle is frozen, rather than one being transferred fresh. We may recommend this if you’re at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), if your womb lining needs time to become more receptive, or if your embryos are having genetic testing (PGT), which takes longer than a fresh cycle allows. Your embryos are then transferred in a separate frozen-embryo transfer (FET) cycle once the timing and conditions are right.
Reasons you may want to freeze your embryos include:
Following fertilisation, embryos are monitored in our time-lapse incubators. At day 5, the embryologist assesses each blastocyst for quality.
Good-quality embryos are frozen using vitrification – a process that prevents ice crystal formation and preserves embryo integrity extremely well. Survival rates using vitrification are very high.
Embryos are stored in liquid nitrogen at our licensed facility.
Aria was founded by fertility professionals, which means every decision is driven by what is best for patients. You will have a dedicated consultant overseeing your care, supported by our team of highly experienced embryologists and nurses, to ensure you receive personalised, compassionate care.
Our laboratory was one of the first in the UK to use AI-assisted embryo selection, and our single-embryo transfer rate and multiple-pregnancy rate (currently 3.7%) reflect our commitment to safe, evidence-based care. We are regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and publish our results transparently.
Our Marylebone clinic offers a calm, unhurried environment and personalised support from the first appointment to the final outcome.
Fertility treatment is a significant financial commitment, and we believe in being transparent about what that means from the outset.
Costs vary depending on your individual treatment plan, the investigations required, and whether additional procedures are recommended. When comparing prices between clinics, it’s worth ensuring you have a full breakdown of all components – consultation fees, monitoring scans, medication, and laboratory costs can vary considerably and are not always included in headline figures.
At Aria, we will discuss the expected costs during your initial consultation and provide you with a fully costed treatment plan before we start, so there are no surprises along the way.
The questions below are intended to give you a clear and honest overview. For advice specific to your situation, we always recommend booking a consultation with one of our team.
How long can embryos be stored?
Embryos can now be stored for up to 55 years under HFEA regulations. To continue storing your embryos up to this limit, you must formally renew your consent with Aria at least every 10 years.
Does freezing damage embryos?
Modern vitrification techniques have transformed embryo survival rates. The vast majority of vitrified embryos survive the thaw process intact.
Are the success rates from frozen embryos as good as fresh transfers?
In many cases, yes. Some studies suggest that frozen embryo transfer can achieve outcomes equivalent to, or even slightly better than, fresh transfer, as the uterus is given time to recover from stimulation. Your consultant will advise on the best strategy for your individual situation.
What happens to my frozen embryos if I no longer want them?
You can allow them to perish, donate them to another couple, or donate them for research. These options are covered in your consent forms, which you can review and update at any time.
What does embryo storage cost at Aria?
There are two parts of the cost to consider: freezing your embryos and storing them. See our pricing guide for current figures or call our team on 0203 263 6025 for a personalised, costed plan.
Where is Aria Fertility?
We are located at 8 Welbeck Way, Marylebone, London W1G 9YL – a short walk from Bond Street Underground station. The clinic is deliberately discreet and calm, situated in a quiet mews in the heart of London’s medical district.
When you are ready and the time is right for you, the next step is to contact us, and we will help you arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-call introduction with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by calling one of our friendly team members on +44 (0) 203 263 6025.
We really look forward to getting to know you and helping guide you toward your next steps toward your dream family.