IVF at Baystate Health

Baystate Health has had the privilege of being a part of many families’ IVF journeys over several decades. As of December 2023, Baystate Health transitioned its specialty reproductive services to Boston IVF. Due to this transition, Baystate Health will close the lab where embryos, sperm, or eggs are currently being stored in our reproductive lab based in Springfield, MA. This lab will close on December 31, 2025.

Families who are currently storing embryos, sperm or eggs will all receive personalized letters outlining the options and the next steps in the process and should contact Baystate Health by October 1, 2025 to notify us of your decision.

We understand decisions moving forward are deeply personal and we are committed to continuing to support families as we prepare to close the lab where embryos, sperm and eggs are stored. Below, you will find more information on this process, as well as answers to many of your questions.

We understand that this is a significant transition and decision. Patients with questions or in need of assistance with selecting a facility or coordinating a transfer, should contact the lab at 413-794-1958.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do we have to decide if we would like to transfer our sperm, eggs, or embryos?

You may initiate transfer of your embryos, sperm, or eggs at anytime; however, we ask that you inform Baystate Health of your decision no later than October 1, 2025. Once you are engaged with the lab team, we will work with you until the details of your transfer are arranged and finalized.

What are my options for choosing a new facility?

You will be provided a list of options of facilities for you to consider transferring to. Some facilities are just for storage while others will offer patients and families the opportunity to become active with the IVF process if accepted into their program. Baystate’s embryologists can help answer any questions at (413) 794-1958. You may also consider facilities and clinics not listed on the personalized form.

Are there any fees associated with the transfer?

Yes, fees are set by the courier service. Different courier services may offer different rates, so checking with several companies is advised. Prior to transfer, any balances with the Baystate Reproductive Lab would also need to be paid.

Will you destroy sperm, eggs, or embryos after the lab closes?

Our intent is to work with each patient to ensure a smooth and secure transition, and this includes respecting a patient’s personal decision.

Patients may decide to make a personal decision to discard your eggs, sperm or embryos. RBL will partner with these individuals on this decision.
If a patient has outstanding storage fees owed to RBL and does not notify Baystate Health of your decision by October 1, 2025, RBL will discard any specimen(s) that the patient has stored with RBL after the lab closes on December 31, 2025, and they will not be available for future use.
For individuals who do not respond to the letter nor provide us with a decision by October 1, 2025, RBL will discard any specimen(s) that the patient has stored after the lab closes on December 31, 2025, and they will not be available for future use

What happens if I don’t decide on a new facility in time?

We understand everyone’s situation is different and we will work with you based on your individual circumstances. For individuals who do not respond to the letter nor provide us with a decision by October 1, 2025, RBL will discard any specimen(s) that the patient has stored after the lab closes on December 31, 2025, and they will not be available for future use.

What options exist if I no longer wish to keep the tissue in storage?

If you no longer choose to keep the tissue in storage, you will need to contact the lab team and sign appropriate documentation. Your family’s spiritual and personal preferences will be honored, as allowed and requested. You may also choose to donate the material.