So, you’re curious about egg freezing? Let’s break down some of the most common questions in a friendly way!
How many eggs should I freeze?
Your doctor will look at your AMH test results and antral follicle count (AFC) to suggest how many eggs you might want to freeze based on your family-building goals. They’ll also give you a heads-up on how many cycles you might need to hit those targets.
Will freezing eggs now mean fewer later?
Nope! When you retrieve eggs in one cycle, you’re not depleting your ovaries’ supply. Instead, you’re rescuing the eggs that would have been lost anyway.
What’s the experience like at the clinic?
Our team has been freezing eggs since 2007, so we know our stuff. We’re one of the few clinics in the area with experience in both freezing and thawing eggs, with many healthy babies born from them.
How much time do I need off work?
Most of your preliminary appointments can be done via telehealth. During the ovarian stimulation phase (around 8-12 days), you’ll have about 4-5 visits for ultrasounds and blood tests, each taking only 20-30 minutes. The egg retrieval day will require a full day off, but most women feel ready to return to work the next day.
Are there payment options?
Absolutely! We’re partnered with several financing solutions, like Sunfish and Future Families, to help you manage costs. Check out their programs for more info.
Does the process hurt?
You might feel some fullness or bloating during egg growth, which can be a bit uncomfortable. But the retrieval happens under IV sedation, so you won’t feel any pain. Most women bounce back within a day or two!
How long until I feel back to normal after retrieval?
You might have some bloating and temporary weight gain for about 10-14 days. After that, your menstrual cycle should return to normal pretty quickly.
Can medications affect my health?
Fertility meds have been used safely for over 30 years, with plenty of studies backing their safety.
Can I get pregnant right after retrieval?
It’s possible! Some eggs may remain in the pelvis after retrieval, so if you’re considering intercourse, it’s best to use condoms until you’ve spoken with your doctor.
Are there health risks for kids from frozen eggs?
Early studies show that children born from frozen eggs have a similar risk of birth defects to those conceived naturally. However, more research is needed for a complete picture.
How can I tell if my eggs are healthy?
Age is a key factor in egg health. While tests can estimate how many eggs you might produce, they can’t assess quality directly. Ultimately, a good egg is one that leads to a successful pregnancy.
Is egg freezing the right choice for me?
This is a personal decision! Our doctors can provide insights and recommendations based on your health and goals, but the choice is yours.
How long can eggs stay frozen?
Studies show frozen eggs remain stable, with no short-term limits on storage. However, it’s wise to consider using them within 10 years.
What do I do with my stored eggs?
When you’re ready, the eggs are thawed and inseminated using ICSI, a method that’s been around for over 20 years.
Where are the eggs stored?
Your eggs will be kept in cryopreservation facilities here in San Francisco, but we can discuss options for long-term storage elsewhere if needed.
Is there an age limit for using frozen eggs?
We support embryo transfers for women up to 55, and embryos from frozen eggs can be carried by a gestational carrier beyond that age, following our guidelines.
Can I donate unused eggs?
There are strict FDA regulations for egg donation, including required medical tests, which your coordinator can explain.
How do I get started?
You can reach out through our website to connect with a new patient coordinator. Ready to dive in? Let’s chat!
In summary, egg freezing is a personal journey that involves careful consideration and guidance from experienced professionals. If you want to explore this option, resources like ACOG can be extremely helpful. Don’t forget to check out our other blog post with stunning maternity photos for some inspiration, and for practical supplies, visit Make a Mom.