Storage limit for frozen embryos, eggs and sperm could rise from 10 to 55 years
STORAGE limits for eggs, sperm and embryos are likely to rise to 55 years.
The increase is said to give people greater choice over when to start a family.
Ministers have proposed the limit be upped from ten years.
Prospective parents would have the option under the new system to keep or dispose of frozen sex cells or embryos every ten years.
Doctors have argued the existing limit — after which owners must decide whether to have fertility treatment or have the cells destroyed — is restrictive.
Eggs can be stored indefinitely without deterioration thanks to a new freezing technique, the Royal College of Obstetricians says.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “This new legislation will help turn off the ticking clock in people’s minds.
“Tech breakthroughs have changed the equation and this puts more power into the hands of potential parents. These changes are giving people greater freedom over their fertility.”
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The proposals, following a public consultation, need approval by Parliament.
Additional conditions will apply to third-party donors and posthumous use.