Egg Freezing. When To Consider It And What To Expect.
With more women delaying motherhood for various reasons, egg freezing has become an increasingly popular option for preserving fertility to provide more options for the future.
But what exactly does the process involve, and what should you consider before taking this step?
Beacon CARE Fertility answers your most pressing questions.
When Should I Consider Freezing My Eggs?
In general, the earlier the better. Fertility begins to decline gradually in your 30s, and more noticeably after the age of 35.
The ideal time to freeze eggs is in your late 20s to early 30s, when both egg quality and quantity are at their most favourable.
While it’s still possible after 36, we typically don’t recommend it, as success rates tend to be lower.
For women over 36, embryo freezing may be a more suitable option, depending on your individual circumstances.
How Many Eggs Should I Aim to Freeze?
We typically recommend aiming for at least 20 eggs to give yourself the best chance of a successful outcome in the future.
However, the number you may need depends on several factors, including your age and ovarian reserve.
The younger you are, the fewer eggs you may need to achieve a successful pregnancy.
At Beacon CARE Fertility, we are the first clinc in Ireland to use advanced, AI-supported analysis to help estimate how many viable embryos your frozen eggs are likely to produce.
The AI report can help provide valuable insight into whether an additional egg collection cycle may be recommended.
What Else Should I Consider?
1. Freezing Methods
The success of egg freezing can depend, in part, on the type of cryopreservation method used.
The Open System freezing method is widely regarded as the most advanced freezing technique, while the Closed System method is less commonly used and may not offer the same level of efficiency.
It’s worth asking your clinic which method they use (Open or Closed) to be sure you’re accessing the most up-to-date technology. We use the Open System method at Beacon CARE Fertility.
2. Pre-Treatment Testing
Before commencing treatment, you will need an anti-mullerian hormone test (AMH blood test) and a vaginal ultrasound.
These tests will provide an overview of your ovarian reserve that will help to tailor a personalised plan for your treatment.
What Are the Costs in Ireland?
Egg freezing costs vary between clinics, but you can expect to pay around €3,000 for the procedure itself. Additional costs to consider include:
- Consultation fee
- Fertility testing costs (AMH blood test and vaginal ultrasound)
- Storage Fees: Some clinics include the first year of storage in their packages, and some don’t. It’s advisable to check beforehand. (At Beacon CARE Fertility, we include 1 year of storage in our Egg Freezing packages).
- Medication: We encourage all patients to register for the Drugs Payment Scheme, which can significantly reduce the cost of fertility medications (subject to eligibility).
Cost Relief Options
1. Health Insurance: If you have private health insurance, your policy may cover a portion of your Egg Freezing costs. It is advisable to check your policy with your provider.
Beacon CARE Fertility is partnered with VHI, Laya and Irish Life Health.
2. Tax Refund: You can make a tax back claim on any fees relating to fertility treatments through the tax relief for medical expenses scheme. The tax relief is given at the standard rate of 20%. Click HERE to view the form.
Will I Need to Take Medication?
Yes. The process involves mild hormonal stimulation to encourage your ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
You’ll self-administer hormone injections for approximately 10-14 days, followed by a trigger shot to prepare for egg retrieval.
Most women tolerate the medication well, with side effects similar to PMS such as mood swings, bloating, and mild discomfort.
Do I Need to Stop Taking Birth Control?
Yes. If you’re currently on birth control pills, you’ll need to discontinue them at least three months before your egg collection and related hormone tests.
What To Expect During The Egg Retrieval Process?
The egg retrieval procedure is minimally invasive and relatively quick (usually around 20 minutes).
You’ll receive light sedation to ensure comfort, and a fertility specialist will retrieve your eggs using ultrasound guidance.
You’ll be able to go home shortly after your collection.
Most people experience only minor side effects, with slight cramping being the most common.
What Are The Success Rates Of Egg Freezing?
Success is closely linked to the age at which your eggs are frozen. In general, eggs frozen at a younger age tend to have a better chance of leading to a successful pregnancy in the future.
At Beacon CARE Fertility, we see consistently high pregnancy rates in our Egg Donation program where frozen eggs from women in their late 20s to early 30s are used.
However, it’s important to understand that egg freezing does not provide a guarantee of success. It’s better viewed as a proactive step providing more options for your future.
While Egg Freezing can help to improve your chances of having a baby later in life, success depends on a variety of factors which your Fertility Consultant can discuss with you.
TAKING THE NEXT STEP
If you’re thinking about egg freezing, we’re here to help.
At Beacon CARE Fertility, you’ll have access to the most advanced egg freezing technology, including AI-supported assessments and the leading Open System freezing method, paired with world-class care from our specialist team.
Our EGG FREEZING packages start from €2,995 and include one year of free storage.
