In a world where family planning has evolved thanks to scientific advancements, egg freezing has become a valuable option for many of us. At Hestia, we understand the importance of offering fertility options that align with our patients’ life plans. Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is a technique that allows us to pause the effects of time on our ovarian reserve.
In this article, I’ll explain what this technique involves, how it works, and why it might be a good option to consider.
What is egg freezing?
Egg freezing, technically known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a procedure that allows us to store our eggs in a frozen state for future use.
Benefits of egg freezing
There are many benefits to egg freezing:
- Flexibility to plan for the future: It allows women to decide when to become mothers—without pressure.
- Preservation of young eggs: Egg quality decreases with age. Freezing them earlier in life helps preserve their quality.
- Security before medical treatments: Ideal for women who will undergo treatments like chemotherapy that may affect fertility.
How is the procedure done?
The egg freezing process involves several key steps:
- Ovarian stimulation: Medications similar to the hormones we naturally produce are used to stimulate multiple follicles within the ovaries.
- Follicle aspiration: Eggs are retrieved through a minimally invasive procedure.
- Freezing: The eggs are quickly frozen in our specialized laboratory using a technique called vitrification, preserving their viability for the future.
Who should consider egg freezing?
This procedure is recommended for women who:
- Want to delay motherhood to focus on other aspects of life, such as career or education.
- Haven’t yet found the right partner.
- Are about to undergo medical treatments that could impact fertility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egg Freezing:
Is the procedure safe? Yes, with advanced technologies and our specialized team, the risk is minimal.
How long can eggs remain frozen? Eggs can remain frozen indefinitely with no significant decline in quality.
Do I need IVF to use frozen eggs? Yes. The eggs must be thawed and fertilized in the lab before being transferred to the uterus.
What is the success rate? Success rates vary, but they largely depend on the age at which the eggs were frozen and the quality of the sperm used for fertilization.
Conclusion
Egg freezing offers a powerful option for women who want to keep their reproductive options open. At Hestia, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to help our patients make the best decisions for their reproductive futures.
If you’re considering egg freezing and want to learn more about your options, contact us today. Our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way.
One of the most effective methods available today is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
