As a woman, the question of whether to have children is a decision you’ve probably considered throughout most of your life. For some, the decision is easy; for others, it’s more complicated—especially if you’re building a career or just aren’t ready to start a family.

There are many factors to consider, which is why egg freezing and in vitro fertilization are such popular subjects right now. If you’re ready to learn more, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about this fertility preservation option.

Commonly Asked Questions About Egg Freezing

Why Freeze Your Eggs?

All women are born with a certain amount of eggs—referred to in the medical community as oocytes—and as you age, those ovarian reserves start to decline. Some women who choose to delay motherhood may experience fertility issues. When you have a fertility preservation procedure, like egg freezing, at a younger age, you’ll have the option to conceive later in life but also have the health benefits of younger eggs.

Is There an Age Limit for Egg Freezing? 

There is no official age limit; healthy women who are 35 and under are good candidates for egg freezing, as long as they have normal hormone levels. According to fertility doctors, an ideal candidate is between the ages of 32 to 36. However, any woman between the ages of 30 to 40 can take advantage of this procedure.

What Is the Cost?

In some cases, health insurance will cover some of the cost of fertility preservation, but it depends on your employer’s plan. Without coverage, out of pocket costs for medication and one cycle of egg freezing average around $13,000 plus medication. However, that doesn’t include future in vitro treatments once you decide you’re ready to conceive.

Freezing your eggs is a personal choice, and not a decision to be taken lightly. At the Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute, a fertility treatment center in Honolulu, HI, you’ll find a team of compassionate professionals who will answer all of your questions and guide you through the process. To make an appointment, call (808) 946-2226 or visit the website to learn more about in vitro treatment options.