Balancing the demands of a career, personal ambitions, and societal expectations is a familiar challenge for many modern women.

As more women prioritize building their careers and achieving financial independence, the question of family planning often takes a back seat. The ticking biological clock, however, does not pause, leaving many wondering how to secure their fertility for when the time feels right.

In recent years, egg freezing has gained popularity among women to balance career aspirations and family planning. This medical innovation provides an option for women who want to delay motherhood while preserving their fertility.

But is egg freezing the right decision for you?

Let’s explore the biological and emotional aspects of this choice and the valuable insights shared by Dr. Nozer Sheriar, a well-known Gynecologist and Obstetrician, in my recent podcast.

egg freezing
Image Credits: Freepik

First, we’ll understand egg freezing.

Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is a medical procedure that allows women to preserve their eggs for future use. The process involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving these eggs, and freezing them at subzero temperatures until they are needed.

Egg freezing typically involves several steps:

  • Initial consultation: A fertility specialist evaluates ovarian reserve through blood tests and ultrasounds.
  • Ovarian stimulation: Hormonal medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs in one cycle.
  • Egg Retrieval: Eggs are retrieved under sedation through a minimally invasive procedure.
  • Freezing and storage: Retrieved eggs are frozen using vitrification, a rapid freezing process that prevents ice crystal formation.

This technology offers a way to pause the biological clock and gives women the flexibility to pursue their goals without the pressure of declining fertility.

However, it’s crucial to understand that while egg freezing can preserve the potential for future pregnancies, it does not guarantee success. Success rates are influenced by factors such as the woman’s age at the time of freezing, and the quality and number of eggs stored.

The decision to undergo egg freezing is deeply personal and can evoke a range of emotions.

Here are some biological aspects and what science says:

Age and egg quality:

Fertility is heavily influenced by age. A woman is born with all the eggs she will ever have—approximately 1 to 2 million at birth, which dwindles to about 300,000 by puberty.

  • Each month, several eggs are lost, and as a woman approaches her 30s, both the quantity and quality of eggs decline.
  • By the mid-30s, the decline accelerates, and by the age of 40, the chances of natural conception drop significantly.

Dr. Nozer Sheriar emphasized the importance of considering egg freezing in one’s early 30s. “It’s not about delaying parenthood indefinitely, but about having a backup plan should fertility issues arise later.”

egg freezing procedure
Image Credits: Freepik

Success rates and viability:

Research shows that the success rates of egg freezing depend on the age at which the eggs are frozen. Eggs retrieved before the age of 35 tend to have better outcomes compared to those retrieved later.

  • For instance, a 2015 study noted that the chances of live birth using frozen eggs are significantly higher when the eggs are frozen at a younger age.
    (Source: Kakkar, P., Geary, J., Stockburger, T., Kaffel, A., Kopeika, J., & El-Toukhy, T. (2023). Outcomes of Social Egg Freezing: A Cohort Study and a Comprehensive Literature Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 12(13), 4182. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12134182)

Emerging Technologies:

Innovations such as ovarian rejuvenation and advanced freezing techniques are improving outcomes.

What about emotional and psychological considerations?

While egg freezing offers the freedom to delay parenthood, it also comes with emotional considerations.

  • Peace of mind: Many women find relief knowing they have a backup plan if they encounter fertility challenges later in life.
  • Emotional strain: The process can be physically and emotionally taxing, with hormone injections, retrieval procedures, and the uncertainty of outcomes.
  • Empowerment or pressure: Many women report feeling empowered by the ability to take control of their reproductive timeline. However, others may feel societal or familial pressure to opt for the procedure, even when it may not align with their personal desires.

Dr. Nozer’s perspective on egg freezing:

  • AMH and its limitations: The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test is commonly used to assess ovarian reserve, but it is not the sole indicator of fertility. Dr. Nozer cautioned against using AMH results in isolation, as low AMH does not necessarily mean poor egg quality or infertility.
  • Monitoring and timing: For women with low AMH, timely interventions and regular monitoring are key. Many women with reduced ovarian reserve can still conceive naturally by tracking ovulation and planning accordingly.
  • Personal choice ultimately: “Every woman’s journey is unique,” he said. “The decision to freeze eggs should be based on individual circumstances, not societal expectations.”

Watch this to know more:

Modern fertility options:

Advancements in fertility treatments have expanded the possibilities for women of all ages:

  • Assisted reproductive technologies: Techniques like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg donation offer hope to women facing challenges such as premature ovarian insufficiency or menopause.
  • Ovarian rejuvenation: Emerging treatments aim to enhance ovarian function, opening new avenues for women struggling with infertility.

These advancements offer hope to those who may not have frozen their eggs at an optimal age.

So, is egg freezing right for you?

To determine if egg freezing aligns with your goals, consider the following:

  • Your age: Younger women tend to have better outcomes.
  • Your fertility goals: Are you delaying parenthood for personal or professional reasons?
  • Financial resources: Can you afford the procedure and ongoing storage fees?
  • Health factors: Discuss your overall health and reproductive potential with a specialist.

Make an informed decision!

Egg freezing is not a guarantee of future pregnancy, but it can serve as an insurance policy against age-related fertility decline.

  • Educate yourself: Understand the procedure, potential risks, and success rates.
  • Consult specialists: Seek advice from fertility experts to evaluate your ovarian health and explore all available options.
Egg freezing and fertility
Image Credits: Freepik

Don’t forget: Lifestyle matters in fertility…

Fertility centers are everywhere, offering quick fixes and aggressive medical approaches. While these may benefit a minority who genuinely struggle, many rush into them without investigating the root causes of their infertility.

Your initial checkpoint is your lifestyle. Are your fundamentals in place?

Whether you are a man or a woman, lifestyle plays a huge role in fulfilling your dream of becoming a parent. It isn’t just a statement, but biology.

My experience over the past 14 years highlights the critical role lifestyle plays in fertility. Whether it’s for natural conception or assisted reproductive technologies, addressing lifestyle factors can yield significant results. Here’s how:

  • Stress management: High-stress levels elevate cortisol and prolactin, which can suppress ovulation and affect fertility. Couples who take breaks to relax and connect deeply often report positive outcomes.
  • Nutrition: Eating for hormonal balance and fertility is crucial. Micronutrient deficiencies, such as Vitamin D3, can significantly impact reproductive health.
  • Sleep quality: Sleep affects hormonal balance, libido, sperm quality, and overall fertility.
  • Addressing vices: Vices like vaping or excessive alcohol consumption can hinder fertility. Encouraging couples to quit these habits often improves outcomes.
  • Emotional alignment: Internal conflicts, such as feeling pressured to conceive, can contribute to issues like recurrent miscarriages. Resolving these conflicts is vital for a healthy pregnancy journey.

We’ve seen countless clients achieve success by focusing on these fundamentals. While there isn’t a magic potion for infertility, addressing lifestyle factors often lays the foundation for miracles.

The last word…

Egg freezing isn’t just about preserving fertility, it’s about creating options and empowering women to make choices that align with their lives.

If you’re contemplating this path, take the time to weigh the biological, emotional, and financial factors, and seek guidance from trusted medical professionals. Your future self will thank you for planning with intention and care.

 


Take the first step toward your fertility journey today!

We’re here to help YOU find a way.

Set up a one-on-one consultation with our integrative team or enroll in our specialized Fertility Program for personalized solutions.

Reach out to us at 1800 102 0253 or write to us at [email protected].