Thinking about starting a family in the future? You may have considered freezing your eggs, as many women are looking to preserve their fertility as they age. Egg freezing has become increasingly popular in the UK, with 11 times more cycles in 2021 compared to 2011.
As women age, their ovaries age faster than other organs, leading to a decrease in the number and quality of eggs. This decline can result in menopause and infertility over time. Therefore, egg freezing, known as egg cryopreservation, is seen as a promising option for many individuals.
The process involves hormonal stimulation of the ovaries to produce excess eggs, which are then retrieved and frozen until needed. These frozen eggs can later be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) for a potential pregnancy. Although the process can be slow or fast, with vitrification showing promising results in improving egg survival and pregnancy rates.
While there are no guarantees with assisted reproductive technology, studies have shown varying success rates for egg freezing procedures. Challenges include risks of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, potential complications to women and offspring, and ethical considerations regarding genetically related children as the only means of expanding a family.
Egg freezing is a technological advancement that has opened up new possibilities for women to conceive in the face of infertility. However, it is important to carefully consider the risks and consequences associated with the procedure and weigh them against the potential benefits.
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
