Women can preserve their fertility by freezing eggs when they are young and healthy in order to use them later when they are ready to have children. Women are delaying having children until later in life in favor of advancing their careers or gaining financial security in their 20s and 30s. The quantity and quality of eggs you are able to harvest at a younger age can provide you with more alternatives later in life, even though egg freezing isn’t a guarantee of future fertility.

What is the process of egg freezing?

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is the procedure of freezing extracted eggs in order to retain the eggs’ reproductive capacity at the age at which they were frozen. While a woman’s body produces fewer eggs as she gets older, her uterus can still grow an embryo at a later age. Because of this, you can use eggs that were frozen when you were younger when you are ready to start a family.

The steps in the procedure are as follows:

●  Fertility evaluation

●  Preparation (including information on medications)

●  Stimulation

●  Egg retrieval 

Depending on how many cycles are required, the operation might take anywhere from 2.5 weeks to a few months to complete.

Why should you consider freezing your eggs?

The amount of eggs each woman is born with, as well as the quality of those eggs (the likelihood that an egg will produce a healthy child), decrease over time. After the age of 35, the change becomes even more pronounced, with >40% of women unable to conceive. 

Although you can’t stop this process, you may prepare for it in advance, and reproductive science has provided a remedy in the form of egg freezing. This method of quickly freezing recovered eggs keeps the eggs’ reproductive potential at the age they were frozen while preserving the cells’ integrity. While eggs lose quality with age, your uterus can still produce an embryo at a later age. In this way, you can use eggs that you had frozen when you were younger when you are ready to conceive.

Egg freezing gives you an insurance policy and raises your chances of having a baby later if you wish to, regardless of whether you want children or are not even sure.

Final thoughts

Egg freezing is not for everyone, but women considering having children later in life will be able to take advantage of this innovative technique.  The process is straightforward, and with over 10,000 babies born this way globally, it’s been proven successful.

We learned firsthand from experience and from our friends about how challenging it is to locate easily understandable information regarding the financing and process of egg freezing. To help, we compiled the answers to all the most common questions from dozens of publications, studies, and doctor interviews in one spot.  Blooming Eve also took it a step further and created a database of over 600 fertility clinics and specialists ready to work for you and give you the best possible egg-freezing services at a cost-effective rate. Contact our team to learn more today.

‍

1. Costs

The cost of egg freezing and IVF varies anywhere from $5k to $30k for one cycle in the US, depending on the clinic. We spent hours researching clinics to understand their pricing and procedures. Find transparent pricing for egg freezing and IVF.

2. Clinical results

We use and recommend published by CDC (the US national public health agency) success rates which show the percentage of successful (babies born) IVF cycles done by a fertility clinic. This is one of the most popular and unbiased ways to measure how effective the clinic is.

3. Embryology lab

After the retrieval, your eggs will be analyzed by an embryologist who will select mature eggs and freeze them. A few things are very important here:

   •    how advanced is the equipment used in the lab? Make sure your clinic is using the latest technology (vitrification) to evaluate your eggs

   •    how qualified the embryologist is (years of experience and education).

4. Location

Depending on your goals, you might want to go to the closest fertility clinic in your area or the one that can optimize for your budget. You can find a clinic with lower pricing just outside of your city and save thousands of dollars, especially if you are paying out of pocket.  

5. How much is the doctor trying to understand you

Did they pay attention to the details of your medical history? Did they ask you about your family goals? Did they tell you how to prepare for your fertility treatment cycle? – These are just a few things to consider while evaluating a clinic. If you are uncomfortable with your first fertility clinic, we highly recommend going for another consultation with a different clinic.

6. Reviews

Patient testimonials can give you the inside scoop on the clinic’s patient service, reputation, and happy customer count.

Fill out the form to let us find the optimal clinic for you, or get any of your questions answered by booking a free consultation with us.

‍

Egg freezing has become very popular among women of all ages, which is not surprising, but it has also given rise to a lot of myths. Let’s dispel a few of the myths around egg freezing.

Myth: Egg freezing is experimental and is more like trial and error.

Before 2013, everyone who decided on egg freezing believed that the treatment was still pretty new and that there wasn’t enough information on the benefits of using this approach. Nevertheless, scientific evidence shows that freezing eggs is safe, efficient, and no longer regarded as experimental. The methods utilized in egg freezing, such as ovarian stimulation, egg harvesting, and even cryopreservation, have been in use for a very long time and are very secure.

Myth: Egg freezing is dangerous and no babies have been successfully born this way.

No evidence exists to suggest that ovarian stimulation and egg freezing are harmful to women or their future progeny. Numerous studies have revealed no known variations in the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, birth deformities, or pregnancy difficulties when using frozen eggs or embryos (as compared to fresh eggs or embryos). In general, side effects are rare, and when they do occur, they are typically insignificant.

Myth: Egg freezing is a painful process.

The initial hormone therapy injections are typically administered once or twice daily for 8–11 days. A doctor will check in with you 5-7 times during this time to assess how you’re doing and see how your body is handling the drug. When you’re prepared, the doctor will complete the process by performing an egg retrieval surgery to retrieve your eggs. There is no need to worry about this aspect of the treatment, even though the word “surgery” may make you cringe because there are no sutures or wounds, and it just takes a few minutes. From beginning to end, the process takes around two weeks.

Myth: Egg freezing now can make you infertile later.

Many people believe falsely that egg freezing reduces the number of eggs accessible for a future pregnancy because the procedure includes removing eggs from the body. But in reality, every time we ovulate, we lose more than one egg—both the mature egg we release and the unsuitable ones. By the time we are in our late 20s, doctors estimate that we actually lose hundreds of eggs per month. In order to preserve some of those otherwise “lost” eggs for usage later on, we employ medication to ensure that several eggs develop and mature during the egg freezing procedure.

Myth: Egg freezing is only for rich women.

The cost of egg freezing has kept many women from making use of this technique, and regrettably, the majority of insurance policies do not cover egg freezing. Egg freezing is a true game-changer. However, with more options now available more women can take advantage of freezing their eggs.  Some insurance companies have started offering coverage, and many clinics offer some form of financing. There are studies showing that when the pregnancy is delayed till 40, egg freezing is much more cost-efficient than IVF.

Key Takeaways 

We discovered first-hand through experience and a lot from our friends how difficult it is to find information on the finance and method of egg freezing that is simple to understand. To assist, we gathered the responses to all the frequently asked questions from a variety of books, studies, and doctor interviews in one place. Additionally, Blooming Eve went a step further and compiled a network of over 600 fertility clinics and experts prepared to assist you and provide the best egg-freezing services at a competitive price. If you need any further help, please contact our team today.

The process and timelines for egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) can vary depending on individual circumstances, clinic protocols, and treatment plans. Here’s a general overview of each process and their associated timelines:

Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation):

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Similar to the IVF process, you will undergo ovarian stimulation by taking fertility medications (injectable hormones) to stimulate the ovaries and produce multiple mature eggs. This usually takes around 8 to 14 days, with regular monitoring through ultrasound scans and blood tests to track follicle development and hormone levels.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs have matured, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval or follicular aspiration is performed. It is typically done under sedation or anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall into each ovary, and the fluid containing the eggs is aspirated. The procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
3. Laboratory Processing and Freezing: The retrieved eggs are taken to the laboratory, evaluated, processed, and then frozen using a rapid freezing technique called vitrification. The eggs are stored in a cryogenic storage facility (typically in liquid nitrogen) until you’re ready to use them.

The entire egg freezing process, from the start of ovarian stimulation to the completion of egg retrieval and freezing, typically takes several weeks.

IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization):

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Similar to the egg freezing process, you will undergo ovarian stimulation by taking fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries and promote the development of multiple mature eggs. This usually takes around 8 to 14 days, with regular monitoring through ultrasound scans and blood tests.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs have matured, the egg retrieval procedure is performed. It is a minor surgical procedure done under sedation or anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall into each ovary to retrieve the mature eggs. The procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
3. Fertilization: After the eggs are retrieved, they are combined with sperm in the laboratory to facilitate fertilization. This can be done through traditional IVF, where the eggs and sperm are placed together in a culture dish, or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg.
4. Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are cultured in the laboratory for a few days to allow them to develop further.
5. Embryo Transfer: In the final stage, one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus through a thin catheter. The transfer is typically performed without anesthesia and doesn’t require hospitalization. The number of embryos transferred depends on various factors, including age, embryo quality, and the patient’s preferences.

The timelines for IVF can vary, but generally, the entire process from the start of ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer takes around 4 to 6 weeks. Following the embryo transfer, you may need to wait for about 10-14 days for a pregnancy test to determine if the IVF cycle was successful.

It’s important to note that these timelines are general guidelines, and individual circumstances may lead to variations in the process and timelines. Consulting with a fertility specialist will provide you with a more accurate timeline and tailored information based on your specific situation.

Start by booking a consultation at a fertility clinic. And book your free first call with our fertility advisors if you have any questions.

Selecting the right cryobank for your embryo and embryo freezing storage is a crucial decision, and there are several factors to consider when making this choice. Here are some key steps to assist you in choosing a reputable cryobank:

1. Research and Gather Information

To begin, conduct thorough research on different cryobanks available in your area or nationally. Seek out cryobanks with stellar reputations, positive client reviews, and a track record of successful embryo and egg storage and retrieval. Utilize online forums, seek recommendations from fertility clinics, and consult with your healthcare provider for referrals.

2. Evaluate Credentials

Ensure that the cryobank under consideration holds relevant credentials and adheres to industry standards. Look for certifications like accreditation from the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) or similar organizations in your country. Such certifications guarantee that the cryobank follows strict protocols and maintains high-quality standards.

3. Assess Facilities and Equipment

It’s important to verify that the cryobank boasts state-of-the-art facilities and reliable equipment for the storage and handling of frozen embryos and eggs. Take into account factors such as storage capacity, emergency backup systems, and their history of consistent temperature control. Well-maintained liquid nitrogen tanks and backup power supplies are essential features to look for.

4. Review Success Rates

Inquire about the cryobank’s success rates in egg freezing and thawing procedures. A reputable cryobank should be transparent and willing to share this data. Success rates can vary based on factors such as the age of the eggs at freezing, the quantity of eggs preserved, and the expertise of the cryobank’s staff.

5. Consider Experience and Expertise

Determine how long the cryobank has been in operation and the level of experience their staff has in egg freezing and storage. Experienced professionals possess a deeper understanding of the process, which can lead to better outcomes.

6. Evaluate Security and Privacy Measures

Confirm that the cryobank has robust security measures in place to safeguard your embryos and eggs from unauthorized access or theft. They should also have stringent protocols for maintaining confidentiality and protecting your personal information.

7. Understand Policies

Thoroughly review the cryobank’s policies regarding contracts, fees, and any additional services they offer. Gain a clear understanding of the cost structure, which includes initial fees, annual storage fees, and potential additional charges. It’s crucial to be well-informed about financial obligations and the consequences of non-payment or retrieval.

By following these steps and conducting comprehensive research, you can select a reputable cryobank that aligns with your requirements and provides a secure and dependable environment for the storage of your embryos and eggs. If you’re interested, we’ve already conducted this research and can provide you with information about one of the top cryobanks in the US, where the cost of egg freezing storage starts at just $350 per year for a 5-year storage plan. Feel free to reach out via text or email if you’d like to obtain their contact details.

‍