Learn what you can expect from the egg freezing process
The egg freezing process at our Indianapolis fertility clinic supports those who would like to delay parenthood. Some choose to postpone starting a family because of their career or relationship status. Others need to delay it because of health concerns. Freezing eggs can be an effective way for individuals to preserve their fertility and build a family when the time is right.
Who is a good candidate for this type of fertility preservation?
Several life circumstances can make a person a good candidate for egg freezing. The doctors at our clinic help individuals determine whether egg freezing is a good option for them.
Those 35 and under. People with ovaries often have peak fertility in their 20s. They then usually experience a gradual decline in fertility in their 30s. Because of this, many specialists recommend a person consider the egg freezing process if they want to delay pregnancy until their late-30s or early-40s.
People with certain health concerns. Those who need treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, should consider egg freezing. That’s because these treatments can have a negative effect on the ovaries. Doctors recommend that fertility preservation takes place before these treatments begin.
Employees with coverage for fertility care. It’s often wise for those who work for a company that covers egg freezing costs to take advantage of this option. This is especially beneficial for those who know they want to wait to start a family.
Those in the military. Military personnel who might go into combat should consider egg freezing, as injury that affects the ovaries could occur.
Anyone who wants to delay parenthood for any reason. This option is also great for people who want to focus on their education, career and personal goals before having a baby.
Those considering freezing eggs can benefit from the support of the specialists at our Indianapolis fertility clinic.
Start exploring the egg freezing process
Before moving forward with freezing eggs, the patient receives an ultrasound and bloodwork. These tests allow the doctor to evaluate the quality and quantity of the patient’s eggs. Following these evaluations, the patient can begin the egg freezing process.
Ovulation induction. This process begins with the patient taking ovulation induction medications that stimulate the development of numerous eggs. The patient self-administers these medications in the abdomen.
Monitoring. The patient receives regular monitoring at our clinic during the time they’re taking ovulation medications. This monitoring consists of ultrasounds and bloodwork that help the doctor determine the size of the eggs and how the patient is responding to medications.
Egg retrieval. When numerous eggs mature, the patient takes a shot that tells the body to release the eggs. Within 36 hours, the doctor retrieves the eggs during a short procedure. The doctor then sends the eggs to the lab where they undergo vitrification, or flash freezing.
Using the eggs. When the patient is ready to start a family, an embryologist thaws the eggs and fertilizes them with sperm from the patient’s partner or chosen sperm donor. The doctor then transfers one of the resulting embryos into the uterus of the patient or their gestational surrogate.
Those interested in freezing eggs can rest assured that it’s safe and effective. With the support of our Indianapolis fertility clinic, this type of fertility preservation can help patients have a baby when they’re ready. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.
