Fertility preservation is an increasingly crucial topic for many women who wish to delay their motherhood plans. Freezing their eggs to preserve their chances of having a baby later is an option that is becoming more popular and accessible. But when and how should one proceed to maximize the chances of success? Let’s discover together the essential aspects of egg freezing for serene and informed family planning.
Today, more and more women choose to have children later in life. However, female fertility decreases with age, which can make conception more difficult. That’s why many women opt for fertility preservation by freezing their eggs, so they can have a baby later. In this article, we will discuss when and how to freeze your eggs to preserve fertility.
When to freeze your eggs?
The decision to freeze one’s eggs can be made at different times in a woman’s life. Some women choose to do it when they are young and healthy to preserve their future fertility. Others make this decision after receiving medical treatment, such as chemotherapy, which may harm their fertility. Finally, some women decide to freeze their eggs after a breakup or separation, with the aim of starting a family with a new partner later on.
How to freeze your eggs?
The process of freezing eggs involves several steps. First, the woman must take hormones to stimulate the production of eggs in her ovaries. This is usually done through daily injections for about 7 to 10 days. Then, ultrasounds and blood tests are necessary to check the effectiveness of the treatment and the development of the eggs.
Once the eggs reach the optimal size, they are retrieved during a procedure called ovarian aspiration. This is done under light anesthesia and with the help of a needle inserted into the vagina. This step may be uncomfortable and carry some complications, particularly in the case of endometriosis.
The retrieved eggs are then cooled and preserved in liquid nitrogen, which allows them to be stored for an extended period, typically up to 10 years. During this time, the eggs can be used for subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) when the woman decides to start a family.
The benefits and costs of fertility preservation
Fertility preservation offers many benefits for women who wish to have a baby later in life. It gives them the freedom to pursue their careers, find the right partner, and prepare emotionally and financially for motherhood.
However, fertility preservation is an expensive process. Treatment and storage fees for a year generally amount to at least $5,000, plus approximately $400 in annual fees. Additionally, one must consider consultation, ultrasound, blood test, and medication costs, which can add several thousand dollars more.
It is also important to note that fertility preservation is not guaranteed to be 100% successful. The chances of success vary depending on the woman’s age at the time of egg freezing, her reproductive health, and other factors. Therefore, it is essential to discuss your options with a healthcare professional before making a decision.
Fertility preservation by freezing one’s eggs is an increasingly popular option for women who desire to have a baby later in life. It offers them the opportunity to preserve their fertility despite the natural decline that occurs with age. However, it is important to note that this process is not without risks or costs. Therefore, it is essential to conduct thorough research, consult with a healthcare professional, and make an informed decision.
