Eighth Edition - R.3 - Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority

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HFEA guidance (cont)
17.10 In addition to an HFEA storage licence, a licence from the Human Tissue Authority will be required in
order to store ovarian and testicular tissue. The centre wishing to store this tissue should also familiarise
themselves with the requirements of the Human Tissue Act 2004.
Information for those seeking storage of gametes or embryos
17.11 If the treatment involves the creation of embryos in vitro, the centre should give people seeking treatment
information about the availability of facilities for freezing embryos, and about the implications of storing
and then using stored embryos.
17.12 If there is an intention to store gametes or embryos, or where this possibility arises during treatment,
in addition to relevant information about treatment and donation, the centre should give those providing
the gametes or embryos relevant information about:
(a) the possible deterioration or loss of viability of gametes or embryos as a result of storage,
and the potential risk of cross-contamination between samples
(b) regulations for statutory storage periods for gametes and embryos, and regulations for
extending storage periods including, in the case of embryos, the requirement for both gamete
providers to consent to any extension of storage
(c)
(d)
the likelihood of a live birth resulting from previously cryopreserved embryos or gametes, and
screening tests to be done, the cost of these, the reason for them and the implications of the
tests for the gamete providers.
17.13 The centre should provide specific information tailored to the needs and circumstances of oncology
patients and other patients requiring long-term storage. Where relevant, this should include information
appropriate to minors.
17.14 The centre should ensure that, before someone consents to gametes or embryos being stored, they are told:
(a) the options available if a person providing gametes or resulting embryos dies or becomes
mentally incapacitated
(b)
(c)
that it may be possible to register a deceased partner as the parent of a child resulting from
treatment, and the conditions for doing so, and
that it is unlawful to store embryos and gametes beyond the period of consent, the centre
having a legal obligation to dispose of them once consent has expired.
See also guidance note:
4 – Information to be provided prior to consent
5 – Consent to treatment, storage, donation and disclosure
of information
See also:
HFEA consent forms available at www.hfea.gov.uk
Consent to storage and cases where consent is not required for storage
Interpretation of mandatory requirements
The law requires the centre to obtain written informed consent from a person before it stores
their gametes or embryos created with their gametes.
The law allows gametes to be stored without consent if the conditions met in paragraph 9 or 10,
and 11 of Schedule 3 of the HFE Act 1990 (as amended) are met.
17B
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
Guidance note | 17. Storage of gametes and embryos
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