By Kiko Dametra

As women age, their likelihood of conceiving a baby decreases. Added to this, there is a higher chance of encountering issues with chromosomes, facing a greater risk of miscarriage, and experiencing difficulties in healthily conceiving due to congenital disabilities and other complications.

Fortunately, advancements in reproductive technology, such as egg freezing, now allow women to preserve their younger, healthier eggs and store them for future use to expand their reproductive options.  Many individuals are curious about whether this option is right for them, so we look at some things you should consider regarding egg freezing.

Why Do People Freeze Their Eggs?

Some people opt for freezing eggs due to medical conditions or when undergoing cancer treatment, which can have adverse effects on the ovaries and lead to premature menopause. Additionally, individuals without partners or who feel their current circumstances are not conducive to childbearing may opt for egg freezing. 

Career paths and education can also influence this decision for women who aspire to pursue higher education or challenging professions before having babies.

What Is Egg Freezing?

Egg freezing is a form of assisted reproductive technology in which doctors use hormone-based medications to stimulate the eggs to grow. Once they mature, the eggs are harvested from the ovaries and frozen for storage. 

Later, they can thaw the eggs and combine them with sperm to create an embryo, which is then implanted into the uterus. Most people preserve them for later use, but donating eggs to other individuals who may be struggling to produce their own is also possible.

How Does The Egg Freezing Process Work?

The egg-freezing process begins with an assessment of the ovaries’ condition. The doctors carry out an AMH blood test to predict the likelihood of the ovarian reserve producing viable eggs. The reproductive endocrinologist also performs blood screening for hepatitis C, HIV, or other infectious disease. An ultrasound can also help visually examine the condition of the ovaries. 

The egg-freezing timeline may vary but usually takes two to three weeks. It begins with a daily injection of fertility drugs to stimulate multiple egg production by the ovaries. This process uses follicle-stimulating hormone independently or in combination with luteinizing hormone. 

When produced naturally in the body, both can trigger the release of a single egg. These drugs are used in high quantities to cause many eggs to mature simultaneously. 

Egg Retrieval

Once the follicles reach a desirable size, the doctor administers a trigger shot using human chorionic gonadotropin, Lupron, or both. The egg is then ready for harvesting. The doctor administers an IV during the process and inserts a transvaginal ultrasound probe with a needle into the follicles. 

The tube collects the follicle fluid, which an embryologist examines. The number of eggs retrieved mainly depends on the person’s age. 

Vitrification

After collection, the eggs are flash-frozen through vitrification. This prevents ice crystal formation, which can damage the egg’s structure. Technicians use cryoprotectant solutions to replace the natural liquid in the egg cell and keep it intact.

The minimum target for harvested eggs is ten, and the person’s age during the freezing process can affect the success of the pregnancy. Not all eggs survive until ready for fertilisation, and only healthy eggs are injected with sperm from a donor or partner through intracytoplasmic sperm injection. 

After fertilisation, the eggs grow in a lab for up to five days, and then, hopefully, a viable and healthy embryo can be transferred into the uterus.

Side Effects Of The Process

Egg freezing is generally safe, but there is a minimal risk of acute complications like ovarian torsion, intraperitoneal haemorrhage, and pelvic infection. Minor side effects include:

  • Soreness and mild bruising on the injected area
  • Nausea and occasional vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Mood swings
  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
  • Increased vaginal tenderness

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is the most significant risk to ovulation induction medication. It occurs when the ovaries swell and become painful due to the overproduction of eggs. Fortunately, doctors can prevent it by monitoring hormone levels and adjusting the medication doses.

Preparing For The Process

Bringing a trusted friend or partner is essential on the day of the egg retrieval. Comfortable clothes and a plan for relaxation immediately after the procedure are recommended. Patients may need a few days to recover from the discomfort that results from the process. 

Some life changes during the egg-freezing process may be necessary, and it’s essential to pay attention to diets and minimise alcohol and caffeine intake. Doctor’s instructions, especially regarding avoiding high-impact exercises or sex, must be followed. 

Egg freezing is a costly procedure that is not covered by most insurance. However, it is a valuable option for preserving fertility for various reasons. Although it does require a significant time commitment, the benefits of egg freezing make it a worthwhile choice for many.

If you have decided to go down this road, we wish you all the best of luck for a safe and healthy pregnancy.