Vitrification in assisted reproduction: myths, mistakes, disbeliefs and confusion

The purpose of this work is to update embryologists and clinicians on different approaches in human oocyte and embryo cryopreservation, by clarifying some misunderstandings and explaining the underlying reasons for controversial opinions. The work is based on literature review and critical analysis of published papers or conference abstracts during the last 24 years, with special focus on the last 3 years. Due to the latest advancements in techniques, cryopreservation now offers new perspectives along with solutions to many demanding problems, and has developed from a backup procedure to a successful alternative that is an indispensable constituent of assisted reproductive techniques. Howev…