Frozen eggs storage limit to be reconsidered

The government is seeking views on reviewing the current 10-year storage limit for eggs, sperm and embryos, to provide more people with the opportunity to start a family.

The storage period is currently limited to a maximum of 10 years, after which people must choose whether to undergo fertility treatment, or have their frozen eggs, sperm and embryos destroyed. Only those stored for medical reasons, such as cancer treatment and premature infertility, can be preserved for longer – up to 55 years in total.

The government’s consultation on whether the current law to store them for 10 years should change is in line with significant improvements in freezing technologies. The consultation will also consider arguments about whether women are disproportionately affected by the current time limit, the safety and quality issues related to prolonged storage and the additional demand for storage facilities that will arise if the statutory time limit is increased.

The number of women choosing to freeze their eggs has increased by 257 per cent in the last five years, with 1,462 egg freezing cycles in 2017 compared with 410 in 2012.

Minister for Care Caroline Dinenage said: “Every person should be given the best possible opportunity to start a family, which is why it is so important that our laws reflect the latest in technological advancements. Although this could affect any one of us, I am particularly concerned by the impact of the current law on women’s reproductive choices. A time limit can often mean women are faced with the heart-breaking decision to destroy their frozen eggs, or feel pressured to have a child before they are ready. As the number of people seeking this storage rises, we want to hear from the public about whether the law is fair and proportionate, and ensure everyone is empowered to choose when they become parents.”

Sally Cheshire, who chairs the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, said: “While any change to the 10-year storage limit would be a matter for Parliament, as it requires a change in law, we believe the time is right to consider what a more appropriate storage limit could be that recognises both changes in science and in the way women are considering their fertility.”