Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is a sophisticated process designed to preserve a woman’s fertility for future use. The process involves several key steps, which are as follows:

The process begins with a meeting between the patient and a fertility specialist. During this consultation, the doctor evaluates the patient’s overall health, medical history, and fertility goals. They also provide detailed information about the egg freezing procedure, including its benefits, risks, and associated costs.

Preliminary Tests:

Before commencing the treatment, the patient undergoes various blood tests and an ultrasound to assess the health and functionality of the ovaries. These tests typically measure levels of hormones such as FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinizing Hormone), and estradiol.

Ovarian Stimulation:

To stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, the patient takes hormonal medications, typically in the form of daily injections. This stimulation phase lasts about 10 to 14 days. The patient must visit the clinic regularly during this period for monitoring.

Monitoring:

The growth of ovarian follicles and hormone levels are closely monitored through blood tests and ultrasound examinations. This allows the doctor to determine the optimal time for egg retrieval.

Triggering Ovulation:

When the follicles reach the appropriate size, an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) or a similar medication is given to trigger the final maturation of the eggs. This is usually administered 36 hours before the egg retrieval procedure.

Egg Retrieval:

The eggs are collected in a minor surgical procedure called transvaginal ultrasound aspiration. This procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia and typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A thin needle is guided through the vaginal wall to the ovaries to retrieve the mature eggs.

Egg Assessment and Preparation:

The retrieved eggs are then examined in a laboratory. The mature and healthy eggs are selected for freezing.

Freezing (Cryopreservation):

The selected eggs are frozen using a method called vitrification, which involves rapid cooling to prevent the formation of ice crystals. This ensures the preservation of the eggs’ quality and viability.

Storage & egg freezing:

The frozen eggs are stored in liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperatures (around -196°C). They can be stored for many years without significant loss of quality, allowing the woman to use them when she is ready to conceive.