Hey there! Let’s chat about something super important for those of you considering egg freezing. It’s all about taking control of your fertility journey, and knowledge is key!
These days, more women are focused on their careers and personal aspirations, which often leads to postponing family planning. The average age for a woman to have her first baby has shifted from the 20s to the late 30s or even 40s. While society is evolving, our biology remains the same. So, how do you know when it’s the right time to think about freezing your eggs?
Did You Know…?
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 40 to 58. It’s marked by a full year without a menstrual cycle, and interestingly, about 7% of women experience menopause around 40. This means that in a demographic of one million women, approximately 70,000 might hit menopause at that age. Before menopause, many women face perimenopause, which comes with symptoms like irregular cycles and hot flashes. A good tip? Look to your mom—her experience can be a solid indicator of when you might enter menopause.
Let’s dive into fertility! A woman’s peak fertility is in her 20s. By the time she reaches 35, the chances of getting pregnant drop from 20% to around 10% per month. Once you hit 40, it plummets to just 5% per month! Therefore, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) suggests considering egg freezing between ages 30 and 35. You can still freeze your eggs after 35, but keep in mind that the success rates start to decline significantly.
How Does Egg Freezing Work?
The process kicks off with a hormone called Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which your body produces naturally in small amounts. To get multiple eggs to mature at once, you’ll need a higher dose of FSH. Typically, you’ll take it for about 10-12 days before the retrieval procedure. During this minimally invasive process, your eggs are collected via ultrasound and then frozen using a technique called vitrification, allowing them to be stored for many years.
Ready to explore this option? It’s time to meet with a fertility specialist who can help create a personalized family-building plan that fits your needs. And don’t forget to check out our other blog post about sleep training newborns here to keep that parenting journey smooth. For those looking into at-home insemination, Cryobaby’s kit is a fantastic resource. Plus, if you’re considering donor insemination, this link offers excellent information.
In summary, egg freezing is a solid choice for women aiming to preserve their fertility while focusing on their personal and professional goals. Consult a specialist to get started on your journey!