If you’re considering your future family plans, fertility preservation is a proactive way to protect your options. While we can’t promise that a future pregnancy is guaranteed, taking steps to preserve your fertility can give you the peace of mind to start a family at your own pace.
What is Fertility Preservation?
Fertility preservation involves the collection, freezing, and storage of eggs, sperm, or embryos for later use. As we age, the quality and quantity of eggs and sperm decline, making it a smart move to preserve them sooner rather than later. It’s essential to note that while you can secure your fertility, it doesn’t ensure a successful pregnancy, but it opens the door for treatment when you’re ready.
How Does It Work?
The process varies based on whether you’re freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos. For egg and embryo freezing, a partial IVF cycle is required, while sperm freezing involves providing a semen sample either in-clinic or at home. We use a rapid freezing method called vitrification to safely store your gametes until you’re ready to use them.
Types of Preservation
At TFP Fertility, we assist individuals and couples in preserving their fertility through egg, sperm, and embryo freezing:
- Egg Freezing: Involves hormone treatment and egg collection. Learn more.
- Sperm Freezing: A straightforward process that ensures a man’s fertility is preserved. Learn more.
- Embryo Freezing: More reliable than freezing eggs or sperm, especially if you have a partner or co-parent. Learn more.
Who Can Benefit?
Fertility preservation can be invaluable if you’re looking to start a family later. Common reasons include:
- Future Planning: If you’re not yet ready to start a family, either emotionally or financially.
- Transgender and Non-Binary Individuals: Those starting hormone therapy or considering surgery can benefit from preserving their fertility for future family planning.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, or cancer treatments can impact fertility, making preservation a smart choice.
- Occupational Risks: If your job involves hazards that may affect reproductive health, preserving fertility is a wise move.
Costs Involved
Here’s a general breakdown of costs for a typical freezing cycle, excluding medication and annual storage fees (£370):
- Fertility Assessment: £590
- Egg Freezing: £3,695
- Sperm Freezing: £695
- Embryo Freezing: £5,195
Success Rates
Around 90% of frozen eggs and embryos survive the thawing process, with about 50% of frozen sperm surviving too. However, this doesn’t guarantee a pregnancy; various factors, including age, play a role in fertility treatment success. We’ll discuss these factors during your consultation.
Support on Your Journey
Deciding to preserve your fertility is significant, and we’re here to help guide you through the process. If you have questions about freezing eggs, or the effects of birth control on fertility, or want to learn about success rates, reach out to our Patient Support team.
Ready to take the next step in your fertility journey? We’re here for you!
Summary
Fertility preservation offers individuals and couples the chance to secure their reproductive future. Through egg, sperm, or embryo freezing, you can maintain your options for starting a family later on. While it doesn’t guarantee a future pregnancy, it provides peace of mind and flexibility. With various methods tailored to personal circumstances, TFP Fertility is dedicated to supporting your journey.