News Release

August 18, 2006

Contact: Maureen McGuire, 860-679-4523
e-mail: mmcguire@nso.uchc.edu

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services Launches First Study on Freezing Eggs

Option is Attractive to Many Couples Undergoing IVF Process

FARMINGTON, CONN. – Experts at the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services at the University of Connecticut Health Center are studying two methods to freeze eggs produced during the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process.

This is a first-of-its-kind study at UConn Health Center, which was one of the first centers in Connecticut to offer IVF and has success rates above the national average in many categories.

Although specialists for many years have had the ability to freeze embryos created through the IVF process, eggs have posed a challenge because they are extremely delicate and prone to damage in the freezing process.

“Egg freezing is an exciting new technology that will allow infertility patients the option of storing excess eggs instead of embryos, eliminating some of the ethical and religious concerns that accompany embryo freezing and storage,” said Claudio Benadiva, M.D., director of the Center’s IVF lab.

Dr. Benadiva explained that the research will look at two methods of egg freezing – the conventional technique of slow cooling, versus a rapid freezing of eggs called vitrification.

“We will compare the results and benefits of each method,” Dr. Benadiva added, noting that there are many personal, religious and even financial reasons why couples are interested in egg freezing.

The study is open to patients who are undergoing IVF treatments at the Center. If eligible to participate, patients will receive the freezing of eggs free of charge, and will not be responsible for any costs associated with a subsequent thaw cycle that uses the frozen eggs.

There are very specific criteria for this study, including parameters about the patient’s age and the timing of the treatment. For more information, call 860-679-4580 or visit www.uconnfertility.com.

The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services offers many advanced techniques to help patients achieve successful pregnancies. The Center is based in Farmington and now has satellite offices in Hamden and Hartford.

The University of Connecticut Health Center includes the schools of medicine and dental medicine, John Dempsey Hospital, the UConn Medical Group and University Dentists. Founded in 1961, the Health Center pursues a mission of providing outstanding health care education in an environment of exemplary patient care, research and public service. To learn more about the UConn Health Center, visit our website at www.uchc.edu.

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