Oocyte cryopreservation (social freezing) is made possible by the ultra-fast freezing method called “vitrification”. This is an effective method that preserves the eggs in high quality for artificial insemination in the future.
Oocyte vitrification is used by women who are at risk of losing their ovarian function, or who are experiencing a decline in fertility. Oocyte vitrification ensures that these women have a chance of conceiving a child in the future. The ideal age for freezing eggs is before 30, and 35 is considered the age limit after which both fertility and the quality of eggs dramatically decline.
The reasons for freezing eggs are very diverse. In many cases, the method is embraced by women who expect to receive cancer treatment, who have to undergo surgical removal of their ovaries for medical reasons, or who want to postpone pregnancy for other personal reasons.
The process consists of several stages, so we always try to adapt to our clients’ personal needs and their work schedule.
In the first stage, medication is used to prompt the ovaries to produce multiple eggs simultaneously. The progress of egg growth and maturation is regularly monitored by our specialists using ultrasound scans.
Once the eggs are mature, they are harvested. Egg harvesting is a minor surgical procedure guided by ultrasound. The egg retrieval procedure is performed under sedation, takes about 15 minutes and the patient can go home when they come out of sedation.
Immediately after the eggs are extracted, they are quickly cooled and then placed in liquid nitrogen, where they remain preserved for future use. Everything is carefully marked and recorded to prevent confusion in the future. Our clinic uses an elaborate system of control and security regarding stored samples.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us here.
Yes, egg vitrification makes it possible for women to conceive even after their fertility has already declined. This is especially important for patients after 35 years of age. That is when the fertility decreases and chances of getting pregnant are lower. Egg preservation is recommended for women between 30 and 35. Depending on the number of eggs in the ovaries, the method may be suitable for patients up to the age of 40-42.
For couples who wish to avoid embryo freezing because of their beliefs, it is possible to freeze the eggs only. In this case, only the eggs intended for direct transfer will be fertilized. The remaining eggs (not embryos) will be frozen for later use.
Yes, egg freezing is suitable for women with low ovarian reserve. It can help preserve fertility and increase chances of later pregnancy.
We are available every working day, and if you cannot make it, we can set up an appointment outside of our official working hours. Due to our long opening hours, it may happen that your appointments will not always be with the same specialist. However, our specialists attend to each case with utmost care and they have all needed information about our clients.
If you have any questions, you can call us, use our contact form or set up an appointment.
