As more of us try to balance personal goals with starting a family, it’s no surprise that egg freezing is becoming increasingly popular. In our 20s and 30s, we often prioritise building a career or achieving financial stability over parenthood. But as we age, our fertility declines, making it more difficult to conceive. For those who want to keep their options open and increase their chances of starting a family in the future, egg freezing can be a viable solution.
Here is our guide to the egg freezing process, whether you're considering it or just curious.
What is egg freezing?
Egg freezing, scientifically known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where eggs are extracted from the ovaries and flash-frozen, preserving their vitality for potential use in assisted reproductive techniques like in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) at a later stage.
As we age, our fertility decreases and the quality of our eggs declines. This can make it more challenging to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF). By freezing eggs at a younger age, people with ovaries can preserve their fertility and have a better chance of conceiving in the future. Egg freezing can also give you the option to have children later in life when you feel more prepared.
The process
The egg freezing process typically takes around two to three weeks and involves several steps. Let's take a closer look at each stage.
Consultation and Testing
The first step in the egg freezing process is to schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist. During the appointment, the doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. They’ll likely order an AMH test and a vaginal ultrasound to assess your ovarian reserve and determine the number and quality of your eggs.
Stimulation and Monitoring
Once you’ve completed the initial testing and consultation, you will begin the ovarian stimulation phase. This involves taking fertility medications, such as injectable hormones, to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. During this phase, you will have regular monitoring appointments to track the growth and development of your eggs. Your doctor might adjust your medication dosage based on your body's response.
Egg Retrieval and Recovery
Once your eggs are ready, you will undergo a minor procedure known as egg retrieval. This procedure is typically done using sedation or anesthesia and involves using a thin needle to extract the eggs from the ovaries. The procedure usually takes around 20 minutes, and you can go home the same day. You may experience some light bleeding, cramping, and discomfort after the procedure, but these can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Egg Freezing
After the eggs are retrieved, they are immediately frozen using a process called vitrification. This involves rapidly cooling the eggs to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can damage the eggs. Once frozen, the eggs are stored in a cryopreservation facility until you are ready to use them.
What to expect after egg freezing
After completing the egg freezing process, you may experience some side effects, such as bloating, cramping, and breast tenderness. If you experience any of these, don’t panic – these symptoms are temporary and should subside in a few days. You may also experience emotional side effects like anxiety or stress while waiting for the results of your egg retrieval. It's crucial to take care of your mental health during this time and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.
When you are ready to use your frozen eggs, they’ll be thawed and fertilised in a laboratory. After fertilising the eggs, they will be transferred to your uterus with the hope that they will implant and lead to a successful pregnancy. It’s important to keep in mind that not all frozen eggs will survive the thawing process, and not all fertilised eggs will develop into viable embryos. The success rate of using frozen eggs to achieve pregnancy varies depending on factors such as age and the number of eggs retrieved.
Is egg freezing right for you?
Egg freezing can be a great option for people with ovaries who want to preserve their fertility or have the option of having biological children in the future. If this sounds like you, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist. During the consultation, you can discuss your options and decide whether egg freezing is the right choice for you.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be medical advice and is not a substitute for medical advice. You should speak with a medical professional if you wish to assess your fertility and before making any decisions about healthcare, including contraception.
