Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a fertility preservation technique where a woman’s eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use. This procedure allows women to preserve their younger, healthier eggs to improve their chances of conception later in life.
The Egg Freezing Procedure: Step-by-Step
1. Fertility Assessment and Consultation
The process begins with a consultation with a fertility specialist who reviews medical history and conducts tests such as hormone levels (AMH) and antral follicle count via ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve and egg quality.
2. Ovulation Induction
The woman is given hormonal medications (usually injectable) to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg that normally matures each month. This phase typically lasts 8 to 14 days and involves regular monitoring through ultrasound and blood tests to track follicle growth.
3. Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs have matured, a minor outpatient procedure called transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval is performed. Under sedation, a needle collects the eggs from the ovaries through the vaginal wall. This procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated.
4. Egg Freezing (Cryopreservation)
The retrieved eggs are assessed for quality and maturity and then frozen using a rapid freezing process called vitrification. Vitrification prevents ice crystal formation that could damage the eggs during freezing, preserving their viability for future use.
5. Storage and Future Use
Frozen eggs can be stored for many years. When the woman decides to conceive, the eggs are thawed, fertilized in the lab via IVF or ICSI, and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus.
Benefits of Egg Freezing
- Preserves fertility at a younger biological age.
- Provides reproductive options for women delaying childbearing, undergoing medical treatments, or facing premature ovarian aging.
- Increases chances of pregnancy later in life with better quality eggs.
Considerations and Risks
- Egg freezing requires hormonal stimulation and invasive retrieval.
- Not all eggs survive freezing and thawing; success depends on number and quality of eggs frozen.
- The procedure may not guarantee pregnancy but improves chances compared to natural aging eggs.
- Costs and availability may vary by region and clinic.
Conclusion
Egg freezing is an empowering fertility preservation option allowing women to take control over their reproductive timing. With advancements in freezing technology, it offers hope for future parenthood by preserving young, healthy eggs. Consulting with a fertility specialist early can help determine the right timing and approach for individual needs.