Cryopreservation of oocytes is another name for egg freezing, which is a medical procedure that allows women to conserve their ovum for future purposes. The ovaries are stimulated to generate multiple eggs produced from a small surgical operation called egg retrieval or oocyte retrieval and frozen using a method called vitrification, which quickly freezes, avoiding ice crystal formation.
It is a good alternative for women wishing to delay bearing children for reasons of personal, professional, or medical nature, for it assures them of having viable eggs when they are ready to become parents.
Who Should Consider Egg Freezing?
Egg freezing is not just for women postponing motherhood; it can also be an important option for:
- Women undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, which can affect fertility.
- Those with conditions like endometriosis that may compromise egg quality.
- Individuals who want to delay pregnancy but maintain the possibility of biological children.
The ideal candidates are those in their 20s and early 30s when eggs are of the highest quality, but even women in their mid-to-late 30s can also benefit from the procedure.
The Optimal Age For Egg Freezing
The role of age in the success of egg freezing is significant in that younger women stand a better chance of successful pregnancy later on. Studies have shown that eggs frozen before the age of 35 have a better survival rate than those frozen later on. While women in their 20s might successfully retrieve a good number of high-quality eggs, women in their late 30s may have to undergo several cycles to achieve similar results. Therefore, a proper evaluation by the fertility specialist would help confirm the best age according to their particular case.
Egg Freezing vs. Embryo Freezing
When it comes to fertility preservation, women can choose between egg freezing and embryo freezing. The key differences include:
- Egg freezing is suitable for single women or those who haven’t decided on a partner yet. Eggs remain unfertilized until they are ready for use.
- Embryo freezing requires fertilization with sperm before freezing, making it an option for couples or individuals using a sperm donor.
The Egg-freezing Process
Egg freezing is a multi-step process that normally takes about two weeks. It includes:
- Ovarian stimulation: daily hormone injections to stimulate the production of multiple eggs.
- Egg retrieval: a minor surgical procedure under mild sedation where eggs are collected using a thin needle.
- Freezing and storage: eggs are quickly frozen using vitrification and stored in a specialized facility until they are needed.
Success Rates And Factors Affecting The Outcome
Egg freezing is not a guarantee of future pregnancy, but several factors influence success rates, including:
- Age at the time of freezing: younger eggs have a higher survival rate.
- Number of eggs retrieved: the more eggs stored, the higher the chances of a successful pregnancy.
- Techniques used: Advanced freezing methods like vitrification have significantly improved outcomes.
The Cost Of Egg Freezing
Egg freezing can be an expensive process ranging from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1,25,000 these costs cover:
- Hormonal medications for ovarian stimulation.
- The egg retrieval procedure.
- Storage fees for maintaining the frozen eggs.
Some clinics offer payment plans or financial assistance to make the process more accessible.
Mumbai has become a leading destination for fertility treatments, offering advanced medical technology, experienced specialists, and high success rates. Whether you are considering egg freezing for medical or personal reasons, consulting experts in egg freezing in Mumbai ensure you receive quality care for your needs.
Potential Risks And Side Effects
While egg freezing is generally safe, it does come with some potential risks, including:
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
- Emotional and Psychological Impact: The uncertainty of future outcomes can be stressful.
- Egg Viability: Not all eggs survive the freezing and thawing process, so multiple cycles may be needed.
- Mood swings and fatigue
Egg freezing is a personal decision that depends on factors like age, reproductive health, financial considerations, and future family plans. While it provides a way to preserve fertility, it’s not a guarantee of pregnancy. Consulting a fertility specialist can help you weigh the pros and cons, ensuring you make the best choice for your future.
References:
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/freezing-eggs-preserving-fertility-for-the-future#:~:text=%E2%80%9CBy%2043%2C%2090%25%20of,those%20eggs%20in%20the%20future.
- https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/egg-freezing-fertility
- https://extendfertility.com/freezing-eggs-vs-freezing-embryos/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/egg-freezing-process
- https://vardaanmedicalcenter.com/blog/how-much-do-freezing-eggs-cost-in-india/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CIn%20India%2C%20a%20single%20egg,of%20INR%2010%2C000%20to%2025%2C000.%E2%80%9D
- https://www.cofertility.com/freeze-learn/side-effects-and-risks-of-egg-freezing
