Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)

Egg freezing involves hormonal stimulation to mature multiple eggs, followed by retrieval and vitrification (rapid freezing). The frozen eggs are then stored in a cryobank until you’re ready to use them. The process typically takes two to three weeks from start to finish.

Women who want to delay pregnancy, those undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy, or individuals not ready to start a family but concerned about declining fertility are ideal candidates. A fertility specialist will assess ovarian reserve and other factors before recommending the procedure.

The number depends on your age and fertility goals. Generally, freezing 10–20 mature eggs offers a good chance of future pregnancy. Younger women tend to produce more viable eggs, which can increase success rates with fewer stimulation cycles.

The egg retrieval itself is performed under mild sedation and is not painful. You may experience mild bloating or cramping during the stimulation phase, but most patients resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. Side effects are typically temporary and manageable.

Frozen eggs can usually be stored for 10 to 20 years, depending on clinic or country regulations. Their viability remains stable during storage, enabling women to preserve fertility until they’re ready for conception. This flexibility offers long-term reproductive assurance and greater control over family planning decisions.

No, egg freezing does not harm your natural fertility or future ability to conceive naturally. The eggs retrieved are part of the monthly pool that would naturally degenerate, so the procedure does not deplete your egg supply in any concerning way.

Success rates depend on age at freezing and egg quality. Women under 35 generally see higher fertilization and pregnancy success. Modern freezing methods preserve over 90% of eggs, and pregnancy rates are comparable to fresh eggs when used with IVF.

As with any medical procedure, risks exist. These include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, infection, or bleeding after retrieval. However, complications are rare. Your provider will monitor hormone levels and adjust medications to minimize side effects and ensure safe treatment.

Coverage varies by region and provider. Some insurance plans cover fertility preservation for medical reasons like cancer treatment, while elective egg freezing may be out-of-pocket. We help patients explore financial options and provide transparent cost breakdowns for every step.

Yes, you can fertilize frozen eggs later using either partner sperm or donor sperm. Once thawed, the eggs are typically used in an IVF cycle, and you’ll work with fertility specialists to plan embryo transfer according to your family-building goals.