Learn more about how cryopreservation of eggs helps people preserve their fertility
Patients at our Indianapolis fertility clinic use cryopreservation of eggs to pause their biological clock. This fertility option supports people who decide to postpone pregnancy because of their career or relationship status. Others might decide to freeze their eggs because of health concerns, such as cancer. Our clinic supports patients through each step of fertility preservation.
Who needs to pursue cryopreservation of eggs?
Various life circumstances make someone a good candidate for egg freezing. The doctors at our Indianapolis fertility clinic work with patients to determine whether this option is right for them.
People 35 and under. A person with ovaries typically experiences peak fertility in their 20s and early-30s. For this reason, it’s ideal for people wanting to delay parenthood until their late-30s or early-40s to consider cryopreservation of eggs.
Cancer patients. People needing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can benefit from fertility preservation. Cancer treatments can have negative effects on the ovaries. Ideally, egg freezing takes place before the patient begins cancer treatment.
Those at risk of premature ovarian failure. A person with a family history of premature ovarian failure should explore cryopreservation of eggs.
Employees with coverage for fertility treatments. Some employers offer coverage for the cost of egg freezing. Those working for such a company can consider using this option, especially if they plan to delay parenthood.
Military personnel. As combat has the potential to cause injury to the ovaries, those in the military may want to freeze their eggs.
Our clinic is here to help people determine whether they’re a good candidate for fertility preservation.
The step-by-step process of freezing eggs
The first step of egg freezing involves the patient receiving a blood test and an ultrasound. These tests allow the doctor to assess the patient’s ovarian reserve (egg supply). Next, the doctor discusses the results with the patient before taking the next step.
Ovulation induction. The start of the cycle involves the patient taking ovulation induction medications that stimulate the maturation of numerous eggs.
Monitoring. During the time the patient is taking ovulation medications, they receive regular blood tests and ultrasounds at our clinic. This monitoring allows the doctor to measure the size of the patient’s eggs and assess their hormone levels.
Egg retrieval. When the eggs reach an ideal size, the patient takes a shot that prepares the eggs for retrieval. Then, about 36 hours later, the doctor retrieves the eggs during a short procedure. An embryologist then freezes the eggs in the lab.
When the patient decides to use their eggs, an embryologist thaws them and fertilizes them with sperm from the patient’s partner or chosen sperm donor. Next, the doctor transfers one of the resulting embryos into the patient’s uterus.
Our Indianapolis fertility clinic team expertly guides patients through cryopreservation of eggs. This guidance can provide the invaluable gift of time. Contact us for more information about how we can support your fertility goals.
