What happens during a blackout to my embryos and frozen oocytes at the fertility clinic?

During a national or massive blackout, are embryos and frozen oocytes at the fertility clinic safe?

Massive blackouts can be alarming: streets without light, hospitals activating emergency protocols, communications interrupted… But if you are in the middle of a fertility treatment or have oocytes or embryos stored at a clinic, the concern may run even deeper: Is my reproductive future at risk?

The good news is that fertility clinics are precisely prepared for these types of situations. And no, it’s not a coincidence: protecting each patient’s biological samples is an absolute priority, even if the entire country loses power.

What is stored, and why is it so delicate?

During fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF), oocytes, embryos, and in some cases, sperm, are cryopreserved (that is, frozen in a controlled manner). These samples are unique, valuable, and often irreplaceable.

To maintain their long-term viability, they must be stored at ultra-low temperatures, usually in liquid nitrogen tanks at -196 °C. Additionally, other parts of the laboratory, such as the incubators where embryos develop before being frozen or transferred, require a continuous power supply.

What happens if the power goes out?

When a widespread blackout occurs, fertility clinics activate rigorously planned contingency protocols. Here’s how this safety net works:

1. Liquid nitrogen tanks: they do not rely on electricity.

Embryos and oocytes are stored in containers that do not require electricity to maintain temperature. These tanks are designed to preserve the samples for days or even weeks without the need for immediate refilling. Additionally, they are constantly monitored, both manually and electronically.

2. Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and generators.

For devices that do require electricity (such as incubators and monitoring systems), clinics have UPS batteries that kick in instantly when the power is cut. If the situation lasts longer, a gasoline or diesel generator is activated to keep the entire system running until the main electrical grid is restored.

3. Monitoring and on-call staff.

Even in extreme situations, laboratory teams are trained to intervene quickly. Remote control systems allow the status of tanks, alarms, and critical conditions to be checked from anywhere. If something deviates from safe parameters, staff receive immediate alerts to take action.

4. Relocation plan if necessary.

In extreme cases (for example, a prolonged blackout combined with a generator failure), clinics have agreements with centers in other cities or countries to transfer samples, always ensuring their integrity and legality in the process.

Did anything happen during the last national blackout?

No. During the recent national blackout that affected Spain, fertility clinics activated their protocols without any incidents. The samples remained stable, the team acted quickly, and patients were informed for their peace of mind. These types of events not only test the strength of the systems in place, but also the commitment to something beyond technology: protecting your chances of starting a family.

What can you do as a patient?

It’s completely valid to feel anxious in unforeseen situations like this. That’s why we recommend:

✅ Ask your clinic directly about their emergency protocols.

✅ Request information about the status of your sample, if you wish.

✅ Trust the processes: these centers are highly regulated and audited to ensure maximum security.

In summary.

Yes, your cryopreserved embryos and oocytes are safe even during a national blackout. Modern fertility clinics not only work with advanced technology but also with strategic planning so that no matter what happens outside, everything inside continues to function as it should.

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At specialized clinics like Mater, we know that behind every sample there is a story, a dream, and an enormous act of trust. That’s why our teams and systems are designed to protect what matters most: your path to motherhood.

Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experts by messaging us on WhatsApp at 645 096 548 or by emailing care@mater.clinic.