Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process that has been gaining popularity among women in recent years. It involves extracting, freezing, and storing a woman’s eggs for future use.
This technology has enabled women to delay their childbearing until they are ready or until medical conditions allow them to conceive. If you are considering freezing your eggs, this article will guide you on what to expect.
Consultation with a Fertility Specialist
Before a woman can undergo the egg-freezing process, she must first consult with a fertility specialist. During the consultation, the specialist will explain the process of freezing eggs, its benefits, and its potential risks. The specialist will also assess the woman’s medical history and perform a physical examination to determine if she is a good candidate for the procedure.
Ovarian Stimulation
To increase the chances of collecting enough eggs for the process, the woman will undergo ovarian stimulation. This involves administering fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The drugs are usually given through injections, and the woman must visit the clinic regularly for monitoring.
Egg Retrieval Procedure
Once the eggs have matured, the woman will undergo the egg retrieval procedure. This is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed under sedation or general anaesthesia.
The specialist will use a thin needle to extract the eggs from the ovaries. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes, and the woman can usually go home the same day.
Egg Freezing
After the egg retrieval procedure, the eggs are immediately frozen using a process called vitrification. Vitrification is a fast-freezing technique that preserves the eggs’ quality and viability. The eggs are then stored in a cryopreservation facility until the woman is ready to use them.
Post-procedure Care
After the egg retrieval procedure, the woman may experience mild side effects such as cramping, bloating, and spotting. She may also feel tired or groggy due to the anaesthesia. The specialist will provide instructions on post-procedure care and may prescribe pain relievers or other medications to manage discomfort.
Potential Risks and Limitations
Although freezing your eggs is generally considered safe, there are potential risks and limitations that women should be aware of. The fertility drugs used for ovarian stimulation can cause side effects such as headaches, mood swings, and hot flashes.
In rare cases, they can also lead to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Additionally, there is no guarantee that the frozen eggs will result in a successful pregnancy.
Costs
The cost of the procedure varies depending on the clinic and the location. Generally, the price ranges from CA$5,000 to CA$10,000 for one cycle. This cost includes consultation, ovarian stimulation, and egg retrieval and freezing. It does not include the cost of storage, which can range from CA$500 to CA$1,000 per year.
Conclusion
Freezing eggs is a viable option for women who want to delay their childbearing or preserve their fertility due to medical reasons. While the process involves several steps and potential risks, it offers women the flexibility to plan their future family when they are ready. If you are considering freezing your eggs, consult a fertility specialist to determine if it is right for you.
First Steps Fertility Clinic is an egg-freezing clinic in Toronto that offers consultations and egg-freezing services. Our fertility specialists will provide detailed information about the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more about our services and start your journey to parenthood.
