Contact

Services

Egg Freezing

Also known as cryopreservation, Labryo Fertility Center uses the most advanced methods for egg/embryo freezing. The method allows embryos to be used at a later date. Most recent studies have shown that a frozen embryo transfer has a higher pregnancy rate than a fresh embryo transfer. Labryo Fertility Center offers both egg and embryo vitrification methods. The vitrification process has a higher survival rate. In our center, the egg/embryo recovery rate is around 98%. We're here to educate you on what egg freezing is and if this is something you'd be interested in - either right now or in the future.

Am I Suitable for Egg Freezing?
You might've heard about cryopreservation from a friend, or you've read about a successful case from the news. Egg freezing is made to preserve a woman's rightful ability to conceive in the future. If you are over 35 years old, may receive cancer treatment shortly, or simply want to cherish your fertility in the future, you are free to make a consultation to determine if this is something you'd want right now. The process may seem daunting and overwhelming, but we're here to answer any questions you may have. 

Egg Freezing Process Timeline

Egg Freezing Timeline

1. Consultation
The process begins with an initial consultation with a fertility specialist.

Medical History Review: The specialist will review the patient's medical, surgical, and reproductive history, including any previous fertility treatments or conditions that may affect egg quality or ovarian reserve.
Diagnostic Testing: The patient undergoes a series of tests to assess ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health. These may include:

Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels such as AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone), FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinizing Hormone), estradiol, and others.

Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound is performed to assess the ovaries and count antral follicles (AFC), which indicates ovarian reserve.

Discussion and Education: The specialist explains the egg freezing process, potential risks, benefits, and success rates. They also discuss factors such as age, health, and personal goals that may impact the decision to freeze eggs.

2. Personalized Plan & Preparation
A customized treatment plan is developed based on the patient's unique circumstances and goals.

Treatment Plan: The specialist tailors the stimulation protocol to the patient's ovarian reserve and health status. This plan outlines the type and dosage of medications to be used, the monitoring schedule, and the timing of the egg retrieval procedure.

Preparation: The patient may receive instructions for lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, avoiding certain substances) to optimize egg quality. The specialist will also review any medications the patient is currently taking and make adjustments if necessary.

Consent and Legal Considerations: The patient signs consent forms outlining the procedure, storage options, and future use of the frozen eggs. Legal and ethical considerations, such as the length of storage and potential future use, are discussed.

3. Stimulation Process
The goal of the stimulation process is to produce multiple mature eggs for retrieval.

Ovarian Stimulation: The patient begins daily injections of gonadotropins (FSH and/or LH) to stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles. The duration of this phase typically ranges from 10 to 14 days, depending on the patient's response.

Monitoring: The patient attends frequent monitoring appointments for blood tests and ultrasounds to track follicle growth and hormone levels. These appointments help the specialist adjust medication dosages as needed and determine the optimal timing for egg retrieval.

Trigger Shot: Once the follicles reach an appropriate size (usually 18-20 mm), the patient receives an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or another trigger medication to induce the final maturation of the eggs. This is typically administered 34-36 hours before the scheduled egg retrieval.

4. Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation or anesthesia.

Procedure: The retrieval takes place in a clinic or hospital setting. The specialist uses a transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle to aspirate the fluid from the follicles, which contain the eggs. The procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes.
Post-Retrieval Care: After the procedure, the patient rests for a short period before being discharged. They may experience mild cramping, bloating, or spotting, which are normal and should subside within a few days.

Egg Assessment and Freezing: The retrieved eggs are immediately assessed for maturity by the embryologist. Mature eggs are then frozen using a process called vitrification, a rapid freezing technique that prevents the formation of ice crystals and preserves the eggs' quality.

Storage: The frozen eggs are stored in a cryopreservation facility, where they can remain safely stored for an extended period. The duration of storage and future use will depend on the patient's plans and decisions.


How long can I freeze my eggs for?
Your eggs will be safely stored at our facility with around-the-clock professionals and a sterile environment. You can store it for however long you want, and we can assure you with our staff and technology, eggs that are stored for longer will not decrease in quality. 

Are there any risks associated with egg cryopreservation? 
The most common concern regarding egg cryopreservation is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or OHSS. Symptoms include bloating, dehydration, blood clots, pain, and vomiting. However, this only happens in about 5% of IVF and egg cryopreservation cycles. Like any procedure, they all come with a certain amount of risk and complications, but your doctor at Labryo will safely walk you through the process to minimize any chances of complications.