Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation (OC) has progressed rapidly from an experimental procedure with limited success to a clinically accepted procedure, in large part due to significant improvements in the techniques and widespread laboratory adaptation of vitrification. With significant improvements in clinical outcome, elective oocyte cryopreservation has gained in popularity as a means of overcoming diminishing ovarian reserve associated with aging. With clinical pregnancy rates equal to utilizing retrieved oocytes, oocyte cryopreservation is being increasingly utilized as an adjunct to standard IVF and now plays a significant role in egg donation with the establishment of egg banks analogous to sperm banks. Continuing research and clinical experience will be instrumental in defining the role of OC going forward.