The primary risk is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a condition where the ovaries overreact to stimulation medications. Modern protocols with careful monitoring and specific trigger medications have significantly reduced the risk of severe OHSS.

When Should You Freeze Your Eggs? Complete Guide from a Reproductive Medicine Specialist

Q: Is the egg retrieval procedure painful?

The egg retrieval is a minor outpatient procedure performed under sedation, so you will not feel pain during the process itself. Some women may experience mild bloating, cramping, or discomfort for a few days afterward, similar to menstrual cramps.

Q: How long can eggs be stored?

Thanks to vitrification, frozen eggs can be stored indefinitely without any significant degradation in quality. The success of a future pregnancy depends on the age of the woman when the eggs were frozen, not the length of storage.

Q: Does egg freezing affect my natural fertility?

No, egg freezing does not reduce your natural fertility. The procedure retrieves eggs that your body would have naturally discarded during that specific menstrual cycle. It does not deplete your overall ovarian reserve for future cycles.

Q: What if I never use my frozen eggs?

If you decide not to use your frozen eggs, you typically have several options. You can choose to discard them, donate them to another individual or couple struggling with infertility, or in some cases, donate them for scientific research.

Q: Can frozen eggs be damaged or lost?

Modern vitrification technology results in survival rates of 90-95% after thawing. While extremely rare, risks of damage due to equipment failure at the storage facility exist, which is why choosing a reputable clinic with robust monitoring and backup systems is crucial.

Q: Will children born from frozen eggs be healthy?

Yes. Large-scale studies have shown that there is no increased risk of birth defects or developmental disorders in children born from frozen eggs compared to those born from fresh eggs used in IVF.

The decision to freeze your eggs is deeply personal and involves multiple factors including age, health, career goals, and financial considerations. As a reproductive specialist, I've guided hundreds of women through this decision-making process. This comprehensive guide will help you understand when egg freezing might be right for you, what the process involves, and what realistic outcomes you can expect.

Egg freezing has grown dramatically in recent years - with nearly 40,000 cycles performed in 2023 in the United States alone, representing a nearly 40% increase from the previous year [1]. However, it's crucial to understand that this is not a guarantee of future pregnancy, but rather a tool to preserve fertility options.

What Is Social Egg Freezing and How Does It Work?

Social egg freezing, also known as elective or non-medical egg freezing, allows women to preserve their fertility for future use. Unlike egg freezing for medical reasons (such as before cancer treatment), social egg freezing is chosen for personal, career, or relationship timing reasons.

From Stimulation to Vitrification: The Process Explained Simply

The egg freezing process involves several carefully orchestrated steps:

Initial Assessment (1-2 weeks): Blood tests to measure hormone levels including AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) and ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve. Health check-up is performed to ensure that the woman doesn’t have contraindications towards ovarian stimulation medicines, egg retrieval and anesthesia
Ovarian Stimulation (10-12 days): Daily hormone injections to stimulate multiple eggs to mature simultaneously
Monitoring (3-4 appointments): Regular ultrasounds to track egg development
Egg Retrieval (20-30 minutes): Minor outpatient procedure under sedation to collect eggs and confirm their quality
Vitrification (same day): Flash-freezing process that preserves eggs in liquid nitrogen at -196°C

Modern vitrification technology has revolutionized egg freezing. Unlike older slow-freezing methods, vitrification prevents ice crystal formation that could damage eggs, resulting in survival rates of 90-95% after thawing [2]. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) removed the "experimental" label from egg freezing in 2013, recognizing it as an established medical procedure [3]

Realistic Success Rates: What the Statistics Actually Show

It's crucial to understand that freezing eggs is not a guarantee of future pregnancy. Success depends heavily on your age at the time of freezing:

Egg Survival After Thawing:

Approximately 90% of high quality mature eggs survive the thawing process with modern vitrification [4]

Fertilization Rates:

65-75% of thawed eggs fertilize successfully with sperm (ICSI) [5]

Live Birth Rates per Egg (approximate):

Age 25-30: 6-8% per egg
Age 31-35: 4-6% per egg
Age 36-38: 2-4% per egg
Age 39+: 1-3% per egg [6]

"I always tell my patients that freezing eggs is like buying lottery tickets – the more you have and the younger you were when you got them, the better your odds," explains Dr. Valentina Denisova. "But it's never a guarantee."

Dr. Valentina Denisova

Important note: Most women need 15-20 eggs to have a good chance of one live birth, which often requires multiple cycles, especially after age 35. According to current research, a woman under 35 should aim to freeze at least 10 mature oocytes to have a 70% probability of at least one live birth, while a 38-year-old would need approximately 20 eggs for the same probability [7].

At What Age Is It Best to Freeze Your Eggs?

This is the most common question I hear in my practice. The answer depends on balancing biological reality with personal circumstances.

Under 35: "The Golden Window"

Why it's biologically optimal:

Highest egg quality and quantity
Best survival rates after thawing
Maximum fertilization potential
Lowest risk of chromosomal abnormalities

Considerations:

May seem "too early" when natural fertility is still high
Highest upfront cost relative to immediate need
Many successful natural pregnancies still possible

Ages 35-37: "The Rational Compromise"

Why it's often most practical:

Still good egg quality
Fertility beginning to gradually decline noticeably
Career often more established
Financial stability typically improved

"For many women, this age range represents the sweet spot between biological advantage and practical timing," notes Dr. Valentina Denisova. "You're old enough to be certain about your decision but young enough to expect positive outcomes. However, the number of eggs you need to retrieve to achieve live birth starts to increase rapidly."

Dr. Valentina Denisova

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine recommends that egg freezing be offered primarily to women in their 20s and early 30s, though they do not strictly prohibit the procedure for women over 38 [8]. The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) guidelines similarly emphasize the importance of age at the time of freezing for optimal outcomes [9].

Ages 38-40: "The Last Opportunity"

The reality at this age:

Egg quality declining rapidly
May need 5-7 cycles to get a sufficient number eggs
Higher expenses for potentially lower success rates
Time pressure is real

Age-Based Comparison Table:

Age Range	Eggs Needed for 70% Chance of Live Birth	Average Cycles Required	Pros	Cons
25-30	8-10 eggs	1 cycle	Highest quality, best long-term odds	May seem premature, high upfront cost
31-35	12-15 eggs	1-2 cycles	Good quality, timing often practical	Moderate decline in egg quality
36-38	18-25 eggs	3-4 cycles	Last chance for reasonable success rates	Declining quality, higher total cost
39+	25+ eggs	5-7 cycles	Better than no option	Low success rates, very high costs

Who Should Consider Egg Freezing: Medical and Personal Reasons

Direct Medical Indications

Cancer Diagnosis: Chemotherapy and radiation can permanently damage or destroy eggs. Egg freezing before treatment preserves fertility options. The American Society of Clinical Oncology strongly recommends discussing fertility preservation options with all cancer patients of reproductive age [15].

Endometriosis: This condition can progressively damage ovaries and reduce egg quality. Early preservation may be beneficial for women with moderate to severe endometriosis [16].

Genetic Conditions:

Fragile X premutation carriers have higher risk of early menopause
Turner syndrome variants may affect ovarian function
Family history of early menopause (before age 45) [17]

Ovarian Surgery: Procedures that remove ovarian tissue or cysts can reduce ovarian reserve.

Personal and Career Considerations

Relationship Status: Single women who want biological children but haven't found a partner may benefit from preserving younger eggs.

Career Timing: Demanding careers in medicine, law, academia, or business may conflict with optimal fertility timing.

Educational Goals: PhD programs, medical residency, or other extended education may delay childbearing.

Financial Planning: Wanting to achieve financial stability before having children.

"There's no 'right' reason to freeze eggs," emphasizes Dr. Valentina Denisova. "What matters is that it aligns with your values and life goals."

Dr. Valentina Denisova

Financial Considerations: Understanding the True Costs

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for planning. Here's a realistic breakdown:

Cost Structure Table:

Stage	Typical Cost Range (USD)	Notes
Initial Consultation & Testing	€425-500	AMH, ultrasound, bloodwork
Medications	€700-1100	Varies by protocol and response
One Egg Freezing Cycle	from €2245	Does not include medications
Annual Storage	€240	Ongoing cost for up to 10+ years
Future IVF Cycle (creation and transfer of embryos)	€2662-6500	When ready to use frozen eggs (the cost depends on whether PGT-A of embryos and frozen ET are needed)
Total for One Full Cycle	€6300-11000	Plus ongoing storage

Additional Financial Considerations

Multiple Cycles: Many women need 2-3 cycles to get sufficient eggs, especially after age 35.

Insurance Coverage: Most insurance plans don't cover social egg freezing, but this is changing. Some employers now offer fertility benefits and potential reimbursement of fertility treatment costs.

Payment Plans: Some clinics offer financing options (loans provided by banks).

Employer Benefits: Companies like Apple, Facebook, and Google now offer egg freezing benefits to employees.

Is There Insurance or Other Coverage?

Currently, social egg freezing is rarely covered by insurance in most countries. However:

Some progressive employers include it in benefits packages
Medical egg freezing (for cancer patients) is more likely to be covered
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can sometimes be used
Tax deductions may be available in some jurisdictions

Important Considerations: Myo-inositol is most beneficial for women with classic hyperandrogenic PCOS. Women with lean PCOS or those with already low androgen levels should consult with a healthcare provider before use, as it may lower androgens too much.

What Are the Alternatives?

It's important to consider all fertility preservation options:

Embryo Freezing: The Difference and Who It's For

What it is: Eggs are fertilized with partner's or donor sperm before freezing.

Advantages:

Higher success rates than frozen eggs
More stable in freezing process
One-step process if partner is certain

Disadvantages:

Requires commitment to specific partner or donor
More complex legal and ethical considerations
Cannot be used if relationship changes

Best for: Couples certain about their partnership who want to delay childbearing.

Other Paths to Parenthood

Donor Eggs: Using eggs from younger women if your own eggs are no longer viable.

Adoption: Building families through domestic or international adoption.

Acceptance of Childlessness: Some individuals ultimately choose fulfilling child-free lives.

Making Your Decision: A Framework for Choosing

The decision to freeze your eggs should be based on a clear understanding of your personal situation, realistic expectations, and careful consideration of alternatives.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

Age and timing: Am I in the optimal age range (under 38) for good success rates?
Financial readiness: Can I afford not just the initial cycles but also storage and future IVF?
Life priorities: How important is having biological children versus other life goals?
Alternative acceptance: Would I be comfortable with donor eggs or adoption if frozen eggs don't work?
Partner situation: Am I likely to have a partner willing to pursue fertility treatment if needed?

The Importance of Individual Consultation

Every woman's situation is unique. Factors like AMH levels, antral follicle count, family history, and personal circumstances all influence the potential benefit of egg freezing.

"The most important thing I can tell someone considering egg freezing is to have realistic expectations and make the decision based on accurate information, not fear or pressure," advises Dr. Valentina Denisova. "It's a powerful tool, but it's not magic."

Dr. Valentina Denisova

Conclusion: Your Next Steps

Egg freezing can be a valuable option for women who want to preserve their fertility options, but it's not right for everyone. The decision should be based on:

Realistic understanding of success rates at your age
Clear financial planning for the full process
Honest assessment of your life priorities and timeline
Consultation with a qualified reproductive endocrinologist

If you're considering egg freezing, the most important first step is a consultation with a fertility specialist. They can assess your individual situation, explain your specific odds of success, and help you understand whether egg freezing aligns with your goals and circumstances.

Remember: egg freezing is not insurance against infertility – it's one tool that can help expand your options for future family building. The goal is to make an informed decision that's right for your unique situation.

Let us make your dream come true!

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FAQs

Is the egg retrieval procedure painful?

The procedure itself is performed under sedation, so you won't feel anything during the retrieval. Afterward, most women experience mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps for 1-2 days. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient. Egg freezing is considered a safe procedure with serious complications occurring in less than 2.5% of cycles [10].

What are the risks?

The most significant risk is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which occurs in 0.1-2% of cycles in its severe form [11]. Other risks include infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding organs, but these are rare (less than 0.5% of cases) [12]. Your doctor will monitor you closely to minimize these risks.

How long can eggs be stored?

There's no definitive time limit. Eggs have been successfully used after 10+ years of storage. However, most experts recommend using them within 10 years, and some countries have legal limits.

Does egg freezing affect my natural fertility?

No. The eggs retrieved during a cycle would normally be lost during that month anyway. The process doesn't deplete your overall egg supply or affect your ability to get pregnant naturally.

What if I never use my frozen eggs?

Studies suggest only about 10-20% of women who freeze their eggs actually return to use them [13]. Recent research shows that only 16% of women return to use their frozen eggs, with most having success when they had frozen 15 or more eggs [14]. You can choose to discard them, donate them to research, or in some cases, donate them to other women.

Can frozen eggs be damaged or lost?

Modern storage facilities have multiple backup systems and monitoring. The risk of loss due to equipment failure is extremely low (less than 0.1%). However, it's important to choose an established facility with proper protocols.

Will children born from frozen eggs be healthy?

Research shows no increased risk of birth defects or developmental problems in children born from frozen eggs compared to natural conception or fresh IVF cycles.

Sources and References

[1] Cofertility. The State of Egg Freezing 2024. Available at: https://www.cofertility.com/freeze-learn/state-of-egg-freezing-2025

[2] Klein J, Douglas N. Extend Fertility's 8-Year Research Study Is Great News For Egg Freezing Patients. ASRM Conference 2024. Available at: https://extendfertility.com/extend-fertility-egg-freezing-study-success-rates/

[3] Practice Committees of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. Mature oocyte cryopreservation: a guideline. Fertil Steril 2013;99:37–43.

[4] American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Evidence-based outcomes after oocyte cryopreservation for donor oocyte in vitro fertilization and planned oocyte cryopreservation: a guideline (2021). Available at: https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/practice-committee-documents/evidence-based-outcomes-after-oocyte-cryopreservation/

[5] Cobo A, Garrido N, Pellicer A, Remohi J. Six years' experience in ovum donation using vitrified oocytes: report of cumulative outcomes, impact of storage time, and development of a predictive model for oocyte survival rate. Fertil Steril 2015;104:1426–34.

[6] Goldman KN, Noyes NL, Knopman JM, McCaffrey C, Grifo JA. Oocyte efficiency: does live birth rate differ when analyzing cryopreserved and fresh oocytes on a per-oocyte basis? Fertil Steril 2013;100:712–7.

[7] Malizia BA, Hacker MR, Penzias AS. Cumulative live-birth rates after in vitro fertilization. N Engl J Med 2009;360:236–43.

[8] Ethics Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Planned oocyte cryopreservation for women seeking to preserve future reproductive potential: an Ethics Committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2018;110:1022–8.

[9] ESHRE guideline: female fertility preservation. Hum Reprod Open. 2020;2020(4):hoaa052. Available at: https://academic.oup.com/hropen/article/2020/4/hoaa052/5981739

[10] Shah M. What are the Side Effects and Risks of Egg Freezing? Cofertility. Available at: https://www.cofertility.com/freeze-learn/side-effects-and-risks-of-egg-freezing

[11] American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Prevention of moderate and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a guideline (2023). Available at: https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/practice-committee-documents/prevention-and-treatment-of-moderate-and-severe-ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome-a-guideline/

[12] Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Fertil Steril 2016;106:1634–47.

[13] Johnston M, Fuscaldo G, Sutton E, Hunt S, Zander-Fox D, Rombauts L, Mills C. Storage trends, usage and disposition outcomes following egg freezing. Reprod Biomed Online. 2024;48(4):103728.

[14] Clinical Study: Outcomes of Social Egg Freezing: A Cohort Study and a Comprehensive Literature Review. J Clin Med. 2023;12(13):4182. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/13/4182

[15] Fertility Preservation in People With Cancer: ASCO Guideline Update. J Clin Oncol. 2024. Available at: https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO-24-02782

[16] Sanchez AM, Vanni VS, Bartiromo L, et al. Is the oocyte quality affected by endometriosis? A review of the literature. J Ovarian Res. 2017;10(1):43.

[17] Sullivan AK, Marcus M, Epstein MP, et al. Association of FMR1 repeat size with ovarian dysfunction. Hum Reprod. 2005;20(2):402-412.