When considering egg freezing, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. Here, Dr. Jamie Collins from our clinic breaks down some of the most frequently asked questions about this process.
Q: What are the success rates for egg freezing?
Dr. Collins explains that for women under 38, aiming to freeze around 15 to 20 mature eggs gives a 70 to 80 percent chance of achieving at least one live birth. For those between 38 and 40, freezing 25 to 30 eggs raises the odds to 65 to 75 percent for at least one live birth.
In a recent study, our clinic evaluated 1,200 egg freezing cycles involving 900 women. Out of these, 120 women returned for 130 egg thaw cycles, using a total of 1,300 frozen eggs. The results were promising, with 52 viable pregnancies resulting in 56 children, plus 9 additional pregnancies in the works (12 of which were twins). We also have 64 quality blastocysts stored for future use.
Q: How many eggs should I freeze if I want two kids?
According to Dr. Collins, the answer varies based on age and ovarian health. Women aged 37 or younger with good ovarian function should aim for 15 to 20 eggs, yielding about a 30-50% chance of having two live births. For women over 38 or those with lower ovarian function, 25 to 30 eggs would provide a 30-40% chance.
Q: What freezing method is used?
The technique we use is called vitrification, which is a rapid freezing process. While many clinics use this method, it’s vital to choose a center with skilled technicians. Our clinic has extensive experience in both freezing and thawing eggs and embryos, which is crucial when selecting a fertility center.
Q: Is there an age limit for using my frozen eggs?
Dr. Collins reassures that once the eggs are frozen, they remain in the same condition as when they were frozen, regardless of how much time passes. For example, if you freeze your eggs at 30, they will have the same quality five years later. You can use them up until the age of 50 at our clinic.
Q: How can I prepare for egg freezing?
To start, you may be placed on birth control pills to time your cycle for egg retrieval. Once your cycle begins, you’ll begin daily hormone injections to stimulate the production of multiple eggs. Throughout this process, you’ll have regular monitoring visits for blood tests and ultrasounds to track follicle growth. Finally, a trigger injection will help mature the eggs for retrieval.
Q: Can I freeze my eggs if I live out of state?
Absolutely! If you’ve had prior testing, we can set up a phone consultation. If not, we’ll arrange for testing closer to your home. After the initial consultation, you’d come in for a visit with our team, and follow-up appointments can be done locally.
Q: Are there financial options to make egg freezing more affordable?
Dr. Collins mentions that many insurance plans cover diagnostic tests and consultations, with about 90% of our elective egg freezing patients having some coverage. We also offer several financial programs to ease the cost of egg freezing.
To find out more about our egg freezing program, we host monthly seminars and webinars that are free to attend. Check our events calendar for upcoming opportunities to learn more.
If you’re considering egg freezing, don’t hesitate to reach out to schedule an appointment and explore if this option is right for you. You can also check out our other blog post on safety recalls regarding baby food, which is important for family planning.
In summary, egg freezing can be a viable option for those looking to delay motherhood while preserving fertility. Understanding the process and success rates, along with financial considerations, can help you make an informed decision.