Egg Freezing: Am I a Candidate?

egg freezing

Egg Freezing: Am I a Candidate?

Egg freezing, in the past, was primarily used for women wanting to preserve fertility prior to cancer treatments. Now, egg freezing is increasingly used by women who are opting to delay their family building for various reasons.

Women who opt to freeze their eggs run through the same initial protocol as women who receive IVF treatments. You’ll undergo certain fertility tests – specifically those that evaluate hormone levels and egg reserves. This helps to ensure that egg retrieval now won’t compromise future egg stores if you change your mind and decide to pursue pregnancy sooner rather than later.

Once you’re ready, you’ll take the same types of fertility medications taken by women pursuing IVF treatments, which cause your body to release multiple eggs at the same time. Once the eggs are retrieved, they’re vitrified (frozen) and stored until you’re ready to use them for your own IVF procedure.

The Best Candidates for Egg Freezing Are…

Very generally speaking, you’re a candidate for egg freezing if you are healthy, 35-years old or less and have normal hormone levels. There are several different scenarios that inspire women to freeze their eggs, optimizing their future fertility chances.

You’ve had a cancer or medical diagnosis that threatens fertility

Certain cancers and certain cancer treatments can compromise fertility. In fact, this was the driving force that led doctors to research female fertility preservation in the first place. If you’ve received a cancer diagnosis, or any medical treatment diagnosis that increases your risk of infertility later on, schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss your options.

You’re on an academic or career path

Many amazing women pursue demanding academic and/or career paths as mothers, but it’s not an easy road. If your future trajectory means delaying motherhood until age 37 or older, egg freezing might be an option for you. If you don’t see yourself having children before you turn 35, it’s a good idea to freeze your eggs while you’re on the younger side.

This is because the quality of the egg matters, and egg quality diminishes rapidly for women 35-years and older. Assuming there are no other fertility issues at work, this will put your IVF success rates at the age you were when you froze your eggs, rather than the age you are when you have IVF.

You haven’t found your life partner…yet

Many single women opt to use IUI and donor sperm to improve their chances of conceiving a healthy baby without egg freezing – and without a partner in the picture. However, we understand this option doesn’t appeal to all women. If you’re 35-years or older, egg freezing can provide peace of mind, ensuring eggs are plentiful and available when your partner does make an appearance and the you’re ready to start a family.

Are you interested in learning more about egg freezing options? Contact us here at the Fertility Center of Dallas to schedule a consultation.



Translate »