Ovum freezing, also known as egg freezing or oocyte cryopreservation, is a medical procedure that allows women to preserve their fertility for the future. The process involves retrieving a woman’s eggs, freezing them, and storing them for later use. In India, this option is becoming increasingly popular as more women choose to delay pregnancy due to personal, professional, or medical reasons.
This blog aims to provide a step-by-step understanding of the ovum freezing process in India, including its costs, benefits, potential risks, and success factors, to help you make an informed decision.
Why Do Women Opt for Ovum Freezing?
Medical Reasons
- Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy can damage the ovaries. Freezing eggs beforehand preserves fertility.
- Conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect egg quality over time.
- Genetic predispositions such as BRCA mutations may lead to early menopause.
Personal Reasons
- Delaying pregnancy to focus on education, career, or personal milestones.
- I have not found the right partner yet.
- Desire to have biological children later in life without the decline in egg quality associated with ageing.
Step-by-Step Ovum Freezing Process in India
- Initial Consultation and Evaluation: The first step involves meeting a fertility specialist who will review your medical history, lifestyle, and fertility goals. Tests such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels, and ultrasound scans are conducted to assess ovarian reserve.
- Ovarian Stimulation: You will receive daily hormone injections for around 10 to 14 days to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg that develops in a normal cycle. Regular blood tests and ultrasounds help monitor progress.
- Egg Retrieval: When the eggs are mature, a minor procedure is done under day care admission. Using ultrasound guidance, the doctor collects eggs from the ovaries with a thin needle. The process usually takes less than 30 minutes.
- Vitrification (Freezing): The retrieved eggs are quickly frozen using a rapid-freezing method called vitrification. This technique prevents ice crystal formation and preserves the eggs at very low temperatures.
- Storage: The eggs are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at around -196°C. Clinics charge annual storage fees and maintain strict monitoring to ensure safety.
Cost of Ovum Freezing in India
The cost can vary depending on the clinic, city, and patient-specific requirements.
- Average per cycle: ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,50,000
- Medications for ovarian stimulation: ₹50,000 to ₹70,000
- Egg retrieval and freezing: ₹80,000 to ₹1,20,000
Factors affecting the cost include the number of cycles required, the clinic's reputation, and the patient’s age and ovarian reserve.
Success Rates and Factors Affecting Outcomes
- Age at freezing: Eggs frozen before 35 years generally offer higher success rates.
- Number of eggs retrieved: More eggs increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy later.
- Quality of eggs: Younger eggs tend to have better quality.
- Clinic expertise: Experienced specialists and advanced lab facilities can significantly improve results.
Legal and Ethical Considerations in India
- Regulations: The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill governs ART clinics and egg banks.
- Consent: Informed written consent is required before proceeding.
- Storage duration: Eggs can be stored for several years, depending on legal guidelines and clinic policy.
Risks and Side Effects
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): In some cases, hormone injections can cause swollen, painful ovaries.
- Infection: A rare risk during egg retrieval.
- Emotional stress: Hormonal changes and the process itself can be emotionally challenging.
Choosing the Right Fertility Clinic in India
When selecting a clinic, consider:
- Success rates and patient testimonials
- Transparency regarding costs and procedures
- Expertise of fertility specialists
- Advanced technology and lab standards
- Convenient location and accessible care
In Conclusion
Ovum freezing is an empowering choice for women who want flexibility in planning their families. Whether for medical reasons or personal preference, it allows you to preserve your fertility and improve your chances of having a biological child later. Consulting a trusted fertility specialist is the first step to understanding your options, costs, and potential outcomes.
Take Control of Your Fertility – Consult Dr Nandita Palshetkar Today
Are you considering ovum freezing to preserve your fertility? Dr Nandita Palshetkar, a leading fertility specialist in India, offers expert guidance and advanced reproductive technology to help you make informed decisions. With her personalised care and years of experience, you can confidently take the next step towards securing your reproductive future. Book your consultation today and explore how ovum freezing can work for you.
FAQs
At what age is ovum freezing most effective?
Egg freezing before the age of 35 generally offers the best chances for future pregnancy, as egg quality and quantity decline with age.
How long can frozen eggs be stored?
In India, eggs can be stored for several years, depending on legal guidelines and the clinic’s storage policies.
Is the ovum freezing process painful?
The process is generally not painful. Ovarian stimulation may cause mild discomfort, and egg retrieval is performed under sedation.
Can frozen eggs be used for natural conception later?
Frozen eggs must be fertilised in a laboratory through IVF before being implanted in the uterus. They cannot be used for natural conception.
Does ovum freezing guarantee pregnancy?
While it improves the chances of pregnancy later, ovum freezing does not guarantee success. Outcomes depend on factors like egg quality, age at freezing, and overall health.
