Received May 01, 2020
Accepted October 15, 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate what data exist in literature about the fate of the ECE. Methods: It is an integrative review of articles published in the last ten years, in the Medline and PubMed databases on the subject. Results: studies included in the review demonstrate that difficulties in defining the fate of excess cryopreserved embryos are mainly due to the absence of specific legislation in most countries. Sociocultural and demographic factors such as religion, treatment period, ethnicity, income, marital status, economic status and education level are factors that influence the choice of the final destination of the ECE. This study demonstrated that in most of the countries evaluated, the law or regulations do not provide clear guidance on the final destination of the excess cryopreserved embryos, although it is reasonable to consider that the law will treat embryos, after a certain period of time, as abandoned. Accurate information about the desired destination of the excess cryopreserved embryos is needed from the beginning of the breeding process to minimize future problems. Conclusion: We conclude that this is a controversial issue, involving ethical, legal, moral and financial issues that lack specific legislation in almost all of the countries evaluated, which contributes to indecision, abandonment and hinders the final destination of these embryos.