Purpose: This study aims to test whether a new automated system can freeze human eggs and embryos as effectively as the current manual method performed by laboratory staff. Background: Currently, freezing eggs and embryos during fertility treatments (IVF/ICSI) is done entirely by hand by skilled embryologists. This manual process is time-consuming, requires extensive training, and outcomes can vary between different staff members. Automating this process could help standardize procedures, reduce costs, and potentially make fertility treatments more accessible to patients. What is Being Tested: The study will compare an automated freezing system (prototype designation PRESERVE-CR) against the standard manual freezing method. The key research question is: Can the automated system preserve eggs and embryos as successfully as experienced embryologists do by hand? How It Works: Patients undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment at CARE Fertility Manchester who consent to participate will have their surplus eggs and embryos (those not suitable for their treatment) divided into two groups. Some will be frozen using the traditional manual method, and some using the new automated system. Both groups will then be thawed to measure survival rates. Tests do not encompass any reproductive outcomes or the creation of embryos specifically for this research. Why This Matters: If successful, automated freezing could help reduce the workload on laboratory staff, standardize the freezing process across different clinics, potentially lower treatment costs, and make fertility treatments available to more people who need them. The study only uses oocytes and embryos which are unsuitable for patient treatment and that would otherwise be discarded, ensuring no impact on participants' actual fertility treatment.
Age range
18 Years – 38 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Cryosurvival
Timeframe: Within 14 days of egg retrieval