The Complex World of Stored Embryos 

Written by: Sam Everingham

What happens to embryos left in storage after families feel their journey is complete? It’s a question I’ve seen many intended parents struggle with over the years, and it’s one explored deeply in a recent MIT Technology Review article. The piece delves into the emotional, ethical, and logistical challenges of managing stored embryos—challenges I’ve both witnessed and experienced personally. 

In my own family-building journey, my partner and I created several embryos with the help of donor eggs back in 2009. While some embryos brought us immeasurable joy with the birth of our daughters, others remain unaccounted for due to changes in laws and shifting circumstances. For us, the loss of control over their fate was something we came to accept. But I know that’s not the case for everyone. 

I recently hosted a dinner for a couple who’ve been paying storage fees for their embryos for 14 years. They can’t agree on what to do—the mother feels strongly about donating them, while her husband isn’t comfortable with that idea. It’s an all-too-common scenario, reflecting just how deeply personal and complex these decisions are. 
Clinics around the world also face challenges, particularly when they lose contact with patients or are left without clear directives. Some clinics, understandably cautious about liability, choose to store embryos indefinitely. This creates what the article aptly describes as a “black hole” of embryos, where decisions are delayed, and emotions often run high. 

The article offers an insightful look at this multifaceted issue and highlights just how important it is for families to plan ahead and communicate clearly about their wishes. I encourage you to read it here. It’s a thought-provoking piece that shines a light on a topic that deserves more discussion. 

If you’re navigating similar decisions or starting your family-building journey, know that you don’t have to do it alone. At Growing Families, we provide tailored advice and support to help you plan and manage every step with confidence. Feel free to reach out to us—we’re here to help. 

This article was written by:

Sam Everingham

Sam Everingham is the founder of Growing Families. He has extensive global networks with surrogacy researchers, families, agencies, and reproductive specialists, and has been helping couples and singles with their family building journey for over a decade. He is a regular media commentator and has co-authored articles on surrogacy in several reputable journals.

Read more about Sam Everingham

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