What is Egg Preservation?
Egg preservation, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where a woman's eggs (oocytes) are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use. This technique allows women to delay pregnancy until they are ready, without compromising the quality of their eggs.
Wish to delay childbearing for personal or professional reasons.
Are diagnosed with medical conditions such as
cancer and require treatments (e.g., chemotherapy) that may affect their fertility.
Have a family history of early menopause.
Are undergoing in vitro fertilization (
IVF) and prefer to freeze extra eggs.
Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Monitoring: Regular ultrasound and blood tests are conducted to monitor the growth and development of follicles.
Egg Retrieval: Once the follicles are mature, eggs are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure called transvaginal ultrasound aspiration.
Freezing: The retrieved eggs are then frozen using a technique called vitrification, which prevents ice crystals from forming and damaging the eggs.
Success Rates and Considerations
The success of egg preservation depends on several factors, including the age of the woman at the time of egg retrieval and the number of eggs frozen. Generally, younger women tend to have higher success rates as their eggs are of better quality. It is important to discuss individual success rates and expectations with a fertility specialist.Risks and Side Effects
While egg preservation is generally safe, it does carry some risks and side effects, including: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (
OHSS), a condition where the ovaries become swollen and painful.
Complications from the egg retrieval procedure, such as bleeding or infection.
Emotional and psychological stress.
Cost of Egg Preservation
The cost of egg preservation can vary widely depending on the clinic and the specific services provided. It typically includes fees for ovarian stimulation medications, monitoring, egg retrieval, and storage. Insurance coverage for egg preservation is limited, so it is important to discuss costs and payment options with the fertility clinic.Future Use of Frozen Eggs
When a woman decides to use her frozen eggs, they will be thawed and fertilized with sperm through
ICSI. The resulting embryos can then be transferred to the woman's uterus or a gestational carrier. It is important to note that not all frozen eggs will survive the thawing process, and not all fertilized eggs will result in a successful pregnancy.
Conclusion
Egg preservation offers an empowering option for women to take control of their reproductive futures. By understanding the process, risks, costs, and potential outcomes, women can make informed decisions about their fertility preservation. Consulting with a qualified fertility specialist is essential to determine if egg preservation is the right choice for individual circumstances.
