This qualitative study analyzed couples’ perceptions about the factors that contextualize informed consent regarding embryo cryopreservation, through 34 semi-structured interviews, in Portugal. Data were analyzed according to the principles of grounded theory. The results revealed the following needs: timely provision of detailed, accurate and intelligible information about the costs of cryopreservation, embryo storage limit and embryo disposition; reinforcement of physical privacy; availability of time to reflect about embryo disposition and disclosure of users’ identities. The conditions of administration of the informed consent appear to threaten three of its fundamental elements: information, voluntarism and reflection. The development of professional and ethical guidelines is necessary to ensure the implementation of a consent process characterized by practices of counseling and information adapted to patients’ needs and expectations.
Informed consent; Cryopreservation; Patient-centered care; Fertilization in vitro; Embryo disposition