In a recent chat, wellness expert Mia Thompson sat down with Dr. Samuel Lee to discuss a pressing question many women have: how many eggs should you freeze? This conversation, featured on the blog Pregnantish, dives into the details of egg freezing and the elusive “magic number.”
A Quick Overview of Egg Freezing
Egg freezing has been a viable option for women since 2009, originally utilized by those needing to safeguard their fertility before undergoing cancer treatments. With the advancement of vitrification technology, a more effective method for freezing eggs, the process became increasingly reliable. Initially focused on egg donors, this technology paved the way for the Egg Freezing Program.
In 2011, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) removed the experimental label from egg freezing, solidifying it as a mainstream choice. The trend gained immense traction in October 2014 when major companies like Apple and Facebook began covering the costs for their female employees.
Determining the Right Number of Eggs to Freeze
One of the primary concerns surrounding egg freezing is knowing how many eggs to preserve. Dr. Lee emphasizes that a sufficient number of eggs is crucial for future family planning. For women under 35, freezing around 20 eggs provides an 85% cumulative chance of bringing home a baby. For those aged 35 to 37, this probability drops slightly to 80%. Women aged 38 to 40 should aim for about 30 eggs to maintain a 75% chance of having a child.
Dr. Lee reminds his patients that frozen eggs are a backup plan, saying, “Once you have frozen eggs, don’t delay your family-building entirely. They should be Plan B, but if you wait until you’re 45, then that’s Plan A.“
Financial Considerations
In the early days, women had limited financial options for egg freezing. Now, there are more flexible payment plans available, including single-cycle options and flat-rate packages that guarantee a specific number of eggs or cycles. For example, financing through partnerships like Fertility Finance can make the process more accessible. A single cycle might cost around $195/month with 10% interest.
If you’re considering egg freezing, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a qualified specialist. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.
For those interested in the emotional and practical aspects of parenting, check out our blog on engaging poetry, which offers a creative perspective on family building.
Summary
In essence, understanding the magic number of eggs to freeze is vital for women considering their future family options. With advancements in technology and more financial choices, egg freezing has become a feasible solution for many. If you’re looking for further insights, check out this informative podcast about IVF and fertility preservation.