Cryopreserved human embryos in Canada and their availability for research.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the number of cryopreserved human embryos at all Canadian in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics, the number of these embryos that have been donated to research, and the consent processes regarding the disposition of embryos no longer required for reproductive purposes.


METHODS
A questionnaire was mailed to 24 fertility clinics identified as conducting IVF and cryopreservation, inviting completion of the questionnaire by telephone. Thirteen clinics (response rate 54%) completed the survey.


RESULTS
As of August 2003, all 13 clinics cryopreserve embryos not required for intrauterine transfer; in total, 15,615 embryos are currently in storage in these clinics. Nine clinics specifically offer patients the option of donating embryos to research; in total, 299 embryos have been allocated for research, about 2% of all embryos stored by these 13 clinics. All 9 clinics routinely seek consent for research use of embryos, with 7 clinics currently using such embryos for research to improve clinic practices.


CONCLUSIONS
The results highlight the difficulties of gathering accurate data on assisted human reproduction and related research in a context where there is no legislation governing these practices. Nonetheless, the data suggest there are very few cryopreserved embryos in Canada available for research and that even fewer of these may be potentially eligible for research due to incomplete or inadequate consent processes.
Baylis
Françoise
F
Department of Bioethics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Beagan
Brenda
B
Johnston
Josephine
J
Ram
Natalie
N
D002170:Canada; D015925:Cryopreservation; D033041:Embryo Research; D006801:Humans; D009926:Organ Preservation; D027724:Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires