Encouraged by best friend, Tina Datta advocates for egg freezing: ‘I am very open about this concept’

Should women freeze their eggs in their 20s or 30s? To better understand, we asked Dr Shobha Gupta, medical director and IVF specialist from Mother’s Lap IVF Centre in New Delhi and Vrindavan.

What is egg freezing?

Egg freezing, also called oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where a woman’s eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use. It allows women to preserve their fertility until they’re ready for pregnancy. “The process involves hormone injections to stimulate egg production, followed by an egg retrieval procedure. The eggs are then frozen at subzero temperatures. This technology has become popular among women who want to delay parenthood for personal or professional reasons. Egg freezing offers women greater control over their reproductive future, providing a reliable option to balance career and family life without compromising fertility,” said Dr Gupta.

What is the right age to freeze eggs?

The best age to freeze eggs is often between 30 and 34, said Dr Gupta. “This is because egg quality and quantity are usually higher in the early to mid-30s, which can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. As women age, particularly after 35, the quality and quantity of eggs tend to decline significantly. Freezing during this optimal age range helps preserve eggs when they are most viable, thereby maximising future success rates,” elucidated Dr Gupta.

Freezing eggs too early, such as in the 20s, “may not yield additional benefits and may increase overall costs due to extended storage fees”. Dr Gupta said that “the right time in your life can be an empowering option for women who want to extend their reproductive potential, ensuring that their fertility goals align with their life plans”.

Why not after 35?

Freezing eggs before 35 is often recommended because egg quality and fertility naturally decline with age, especially after 35. By freezing eggs earlier, women can “preserve” eggs in a younger, healthier state, which increases the likelihood of successful fertilisation and healthy pregnancies later. “The procedure, known as oocyte cryopreservation, is particularly advantageous for those who wish to delay parenthood for personal, professional, or health reasons. However, freezing too early may not be necessary if pregnancy is planned within a few years, as the fertility decline is more gradual until the late 30s,” described Dr Gupta.

Here’s what to consider (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to Dr Gupta, choosing to freeze eggs before the age of 35 can be a proactive step for women who want to protect their reproductive options in an uncertain future.

What to consider before freezing eggs?

Important factors include age, cost, storage fees, and future reproductive goals. Egg freezing typically involves hormone injections and an egg retrieval procedure, so physical and emotional readiness is critical. “Financially, the process can be costly and isn’t usually covered by insurance. Additionally, women should evaluate how this choice fits into their life plan, as future circumstances may evolve,” noted Dr Gupta.

Before freezing, women should assess their reproductive timeline, financial capacity, and the support systems in place to make informed decisions about fertility preservation.

 

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Is it safe and easy?

Generally, egg freezing is safe, with some mild side effects like bloating, mild discomfort, or mood changes due to hormone therapy. The procedure is noninvasive and has low risk, but as with any medical procedure, rare complications are possible, said Dr. Gupta. ” Egg freezing has evolved significantly, making it safer and more accessible,” said Dr Gupta.

How much does it cost?

The cost of egg freezing can range from 1,50,000 to 2,50,000 per cycle, with additional annual storage fees. “Also, the cost varies from centre to centre. Multiple cycles may be needed for optimal results, potentially increasing costs. While insurance may cover egg freezing for medical reasons, elective egg freezing is often not included, pointed out Dr Gupta.

Dr Gupta advised, “The cost of egg freezing is a considerable investment, and women should weigh this financial commitment carefully in planning for their reproductive goals.”

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.