The landscape of fertility preservation is rapidly evolving, and one of the most significant trends in reproductive health today is the rise of egg freezing. More women, particularly those in their late 20s and 30s, are opting to freeze their eggs to preserve their fertility for future use.
Dr. S. Vyjayanthi, a leading fertility specialist and Director of MotherToBe Fertility Centre, explains why social egg freezing is gaining popularity and how it is empowering women to take control of their reproductive choices.
The Growing Demand for Egg Freezing
Egg freezing, medically known as oocyte cryopreservation, was once primarily used for women undergoing medical treatments such as chemotherapy, which could impact fertility. However, in recent years, social egg freezing—the process of freezing eggs for non-medical reasons—has surged in demand.
According to Dr. Vyjayanthi, “Women today are prioritizing career growth, higher education, and personal goals before starting a family. Egg freezing offers them the flexibility to plan parenthood on their own terms without the pressure of declining fertility.”
This shift reflects a broader cultural and societal change, where women are taking proactive steps to secure their reproductive futures.
Why Are More Women Opting for Egg Freezing?
There are several key factors driving the increase in egg freezing:
1. Delaying Motherhood for Career and Personal Goals
With career aspirations, financial stability, and personal development becoming top priorities, many women are choosing to have children later in life. Egg freezing allows them to pursue their ambitions without the anxiety of declining fertility.
2. Declining Fertility with Age
A woman’s fertility naturally declines with age, particularly after 35. The quantity and quality of eggs decrease over time, which can make conception more difficult. Freezing eggs at a younger age preserves their health, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy later.
3. Medical Conditions Affecting Fertility
Conditions such as endometriosis, autoimmune disorders, and ovarian cysts can negatively impact fertility. For women diagnosed with such conditions, egg freezing serves as a proactive measure to protect their reproductive options.
4. Empowering Women with Reproductive Choice
Egg freezing provides a sense of freedom and control over family planning. Women no longer have to rush into relationships or parenthood due to biological constraints.
5. Advances in Egg Freezing Technology
Modern vitrification techniques (a rapid freezing method) have significantly improved egg survival rates after thawing. Success rates for pregnancies using frozen eggs are now comparable to those using fresh eggs, making this option more viable than ever before.
The Process of Egg Freezing
Dr. Vyjayanthi outlines the step-by-step process involved in egg freezing:
1. Initial Consultation and Fertility Assessment
- The process begins with hormonal blood tests and an ultrasound scan to evaluate ovarian reserve.
- The doctor discusses individualized treatment plans based on fertility health.
2. Ovarian Stimulation
- To retrieve multiple eggs, the patient undergoes hormonal stimulation for 10-12 days.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) injections help the ovaries produce more eggs.
3. Egg Retrieval
- Eggs are retrieved using a minor surgical procedure under sedation.
- The process takes about 15-20 minutes, with minimal discomfort.
4. Vitrification (Freezing)
- The retrieved eggs are rapidly frozen using vitrification, which prevents ice crystal formation and preserves egg quality.
- Frozen eggs are stored securely until the patient is ready to use them.
5. Using Frozen Eggs for Pregnancy
- When the woman decides to conceive, the eggs are thawed and fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- The healthiest embryo is transferred to the uterus to achieve pregnancy.
Success Rates of Egg Freezing
The success of pregnancy using frozen eggs depends on several factors, including age at the time of freezing and overall reproductive health.
- Women who freeze their eggs before age 35 have higher success rates compared to those who do so later.
- Studies suggest that using 10-15 frozen eggs increases the likelihood of conception significantly.
- The pregnancy success rate using frozen eggs is comparable to fresh IVF cycles.
Dr. Vyjayanthi advises, “The earlier a woman freezes her eggs, the better the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy later.”
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Egg Freezing
Despite its growing popularity, many misconceptions persist about egg freezing. Dr. Vyjayanthi clears up some of the common myths:
1. Egg Freezing is Only for Women with Medical Issues
- Reality: While it was initially developed for medical reasons, social egg freezing is now a widely accepted choice for women who wish to delay pregnancy.
2. Egg Freezing Guarantees Pregnancy
- Reality: Egg freezing increases the chances of pregnancy, but it does not guarantee it. Success depends on egg quality, the woman’s age, and overall reproductive health.
3. The Process is Painful and Risky
- Reality: Egg freezing involves mild discomfort but is a safe and well-established procedure. Serious side effects are rare when performed under expert medical supervision.
4. Frozen Eggs Deteriorate Over Time
- Reality: Properly vitrified eggs remain viable for many years, with no significant loss in quality.
Who Should Consider Egg Freezing?
Egg freezing is recommended for:
- Women in their late 20s to early 30s who want to delay pregnancy for career or personal reasons.
- Women with a family history of early menopause.
- Patients undergoing cancer treatments or medical conditions affecting fertility.
- Women who have not yet found the right partner but wish to preserve their fertility for the future.
Egg Freezing at MotherToBe Fertility Centre
As one of India’s leading fertility experts, Dr. Vyjayanthi and her team at MotherToBe Fertility Centre in Hyderabad offer cutting-edge egg freezing services with advanced technology and personalized patient care.
“Our goal is to provide women with the best fertility preservation options so they can make informed decisions about their future,” says Dr. Vyjayanthi.
MotherToBe Fertility Centre is known for its high success rates, state-of-the-art IVF lab, and internationally trained specialists. Women looking to explore egg freezing or other fertility preservation methods can consult Dr. Vyjayanthi for expert guidance.
Egg freezing is redefining reproductive choices for women worldwide. Whether for medical reasons or personal goals, fertility preservation empowers women to take control of their future.
With advancements in technology, improved success rates, and expert medical support, more women are choosing egg freezing as a proactive step towards parenthood.
For consultations and expert fertility guidance, visit MotherToBe Fertility Centre, Hyderabad, led by Dr. Vyjayanthi—one of India’s most renowned fertility specialists.
