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The purpose of this review is to educate the reader on the role that cryopreservation has played and continues to play in the ever-evolving field of assisted reproductive technologies, specifically in clinical human fertility treatment. We discuss the science behind the cryopreservation methods and investigated some of the major considerations that any clinic or cryobank faces in terms of risks and liabilities, physical challenges that accompany the constantly growing collection of cryopreserved specimens, and what this means on the ethical and legal front. Finally, we take a glimpse in the future to explore what may be on the horizon for the preservation of gametes and reproductive tissues.

Women with early menopause or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) experience a menopausal state a decade or more earlier than their peers. The health consequences for POI are vast and varied with detrimental effects seen on neurological, psychological, bone, and cardiovascular systems. The risk profile of POI patients requires special attention, as they differ from a typical menopausal population. This review will explore the health risks associated with POI and examine the various treatment options and also the risks associated with hormone therapy. Given the risks and benefits, POI patients should be strongly encouraged to start hormone therapy until the median age of menopause.