Some women opt for egg freezing if they prefer to start a family later in life or want to keep their fertility options open. During this standard procedure, several eggs are harvested from the ovaries and safely stored in a laboratory for later use. Here’s more information about this fertility option to help you determine if it’s right for you.

What to Know About Egg Freezing

Why Age Matters

Females are born with one to two million eggs. This lifetime supply is reduced to half its size by the time a teenager starts puberty and shrinks to 6% when she turns 35. Egg quality also decreases when women turn 40, as only 20% of their remaining supply is considered genetically normal.

When to Freeze Your Eggs

If you think children are a possibility in your future, opt for egg freezing before you turn 35. Eggs are abundant between the ages of 27 and 34 and are of the highest quality.

If you’re older than 35, it’s still extremely possible to extract viable eggs. Women between the ages of 37 and 40 increase their chances of pregnancy by 80% if they have at least 30 healthy eggs extracted.

How the Process Works

The egg freezing process begins with a fertility and health assessment that includes a pelvic ultrasound, STD screening, and several blood tests. Once the quality and quantity of your eggs are established, the gynecologist will prescribe you birth control pills to start ovulation. The following week involves hormone injections to help you produce as many eggs as possible.

Your eggs will be removed once they’re mature. This process takes about 20 minutes, and you’ll be under anesthesia. Then, the eggs undergo sub-zero freezing in a laboratory and remain frozen until you need them.

If egg freezing sounds right for your family planning needs, contact the team at IVF HAWAII in Honolulu. These experienced professionals will take the time to ensure you understand the process, and they’ll create a fertility plan to help you achieve the family you want, when you want it. Call (808) 538-6655 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to find out what you can expect from this appointment.