What are the yearly charges for keeping frozen embryos, and what happens if we stop paying?

Most centres charge separately for freezing (vitrification) and for ongoing storage. Freezing is often a one-time charge at the time of the IVF cycle, while storage is usually billed yearly. Broadly, annual storage charges in India can range from around ₹10,000 to ₹50,000, depending on the city, the centre and sometimes the number of straws or devices used. A frozen embryo transfer later is a separate cost again, covering thawing, medicines, scans and the transfer procedure. It's important to read the consent forms you signed. They usually state how long embryos will be stored, how fees are billed, what happens if fees are not paid, and what your choices are at the end of the storage period. In India, the ART (Regulation) Act and its rules set out requirements for storage and consent, and centres must have your written decisions on file. If you're behind on payments or unsure of the status, contact the centre promptly. Many centres send reminders before taking any action, but you shouldn't rely on that. Also make sure they have your current address and phone number. Ask the centre for a written statement of the current storage fee, the renewal date, and how the frozen embryos are labelled and tracked. If you have questions about your options for the embryos in the future, discuss them with your doctor and the counsellor at the centre.