What is Egg Freezing?
Egg quality and quantity diminish over time, making it increasingly difficult to conceive as someone ages. Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process that involves retrieving, freezing, and storing eggs for future use. It can be a helpful strategy for those who want to delay having children, or the decision to do so, but would like the option of starting a family when the time feels right.
Our egg freezing services are provided by our sister clinic, EVOLVE. It is the first and only clinic in Canada that is solely devoted to egg freezing. Visit their website to learn more, or book online to speak with an EVOLVE nurse.
Should I Freeze My Eggs?
Egg quality naturally declines with age, which can make conception more challenging over time. Freezing your eggs can be a proactive way to preserve fertility. Specifically, this can be useful for those who aren’t ready to start a family but want to keep their options open for the future. It can also be beneficial for individuals with medical conditions that affect fertility.
The ideal time to freeze eggs is in your late 20s to early 30s when quality and quantity are higher, though the best approach varies for each individual. A fertility assessment, including an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test and consultation with a specialist, can help determine whether egg freezing is the right choice for you.
It’s also important to consider the emotional aspects of freezing your eggs. Some find comfort in knowing they have more options. Reflecting on your personal goals can help ensure your decision aligns with your long-term family plans.
Ideal Candidates for Egg Freezing
There are many reasons that patients may explore egg freezing, such as:
- Time to find the right partner
- History of endometriosis
- Educational, career, or personal goals
- Family history of early menopause
- Chronic or genetic conditions
- Chemotherapy
- Gender transition
- Other personal reasons
Egg Freezing Process
Following an initial fertility assessment and diagnostic testing at EVOLVE, the egg freezing process begins. Here is what a typical egg freezing cycle involves:
Egg Freezing Costs
The cost of an egg freezing cycle at our sister clinic, EVOLVE, is $8,600, which includes the procedure and necessary medical care.
Additionally, medications range from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on individual needs. Some individuals may require multiple cycles for the optimal number of eggs. You can review a full list of pricing here, as well as financing options.
Egg Freezing Storage Cost
Once your eggs are retrieved and frozen through EVOLVE, they are stored in a specialized facility. After the first year, annual storage fees range from $400 to $600.
Is Egg Freezing Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for egg freezing varies by provider and reason for treatment. Some plans cover it for medical reasons, such as cancer treatment or fertility-impacting conditions, while elective egg freezing is typically not included. However, an increasing number of employers now offer fertility preservation benefits, and some plans may cover medications. Check with your insurance provider or HR department to explore your options.
Success Rate of Egg Freezing
The likelihood of becoming pregnant with frozen eggs will depend on many factors, such as the number of eggs you have in storage and how old you were when you froze them. For example, research suggests that a person who froze 20 eggs when they were 30-34 years old may have an 82% chance of having at least one child if they choose to use those eggs in the future. Your EVOLVE team will discuss potential success rates with you based on your unique circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the Best Time to Freeze Your Eggs?
If you know you don’t want to start a family right now but might in the future, then freezing your eggs will improve your chances of success later if you have IVF. That’s because as you get older, the quality and quantity of your eggs decreases, makingwhich can make it more difficult to become pregnant. By freezing your eggs in your late 20s to mid-30s, you will have the best possible chances of conception when you’re ready.
What are the Success Rates with Egg Freezing?
The likelihood of becoming pregnant with frozen eggs will depend on many factors, such as the number of eggs you have in storage and how old you were when you froze them. For example, research suggests that a person who froze 20 eggs when they were 30-34 years old may have an 82% chance of having at least one child if they choose to use those eggs in the future. Your EVOLVE team will discuss potential success rates with you based on your unique circumstances.
Is Egg Freezing Safe?
Yes! Egg freezing is a very safe procedure that only leads to minimal discomfort. Patients may experience temporary side effects like bloating, headaches, and mood swings, while taking the stimulation drugs. A small group of patients (around 1.4%) will develop a side effect called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). There is no evidence to suggest that egg freezing has any negative outcomes for baby or the pregnancy.
How Long Can Your Eggs Remain Frozen?
There is no time limit on how long your eggs can stay frozen. Because the eggs are kept at such cool temperatures (-196C), their quality does not decrease no matter how long you decide to keep them in storage.
What Can I Expect During the Egg Retrieval Process?
Before retrieval, you will undergo hormonal stimulation for 10–14 days. This will involve injecting medications to help your ovaries produce multiple eggs. Your progress will be monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds.
The actual retrieval is performed under light sedation and takes about 20–30 minutes. A fertility specialist uses ultrasound guidance to retrieve the eggs from the ovaries with a thin needle. Most patients experience temporary and mild cramping or bloating afterward. Many return to their normal activities within a day or two. The retrieved eggs are then frozen and stored for future use.
How Many Egg Freezing Cycles Will I Need?
The number of egg freezing cycles needed varies from person to person and depends on age, ovarian reserve, and personal fertility goals. On average, a single cycle can retrieve 10–20 eggs, but not all eggs will be viable for future use. A consultation with a TRIO or EVOLVE fertility specialist can help determine your right approach.
Patient Stories
“I couldn't be happier with the care I received at this clinic. From the personalized approach to patient care to the thorough and comprehensive treatment, the staff at truly went above and beyond. Their professionalism, empathy, and expertise made me feel comfortable and supported throughout my egg freezing journey.”
