What Is Oocyte Cryopreservation?
Oocyte cryopreservation, also known as egg freezing, is a technique used to preserve a woman’s unfertilized eggs for future use. This allows women to safeguard their fertility and increase the chance of having a healthy biological child later in life, regardless of natural fertility decline.
Quality and Quantity of Eggs with Aging
Unlike men, women are born with a fixed number of eggs. Over time, both the quantity and quality of eggs decline — a process known as reproductive aging.
- At birth: 1–2 million eggs.
- By late 30s: Significant decrease in egg count.
- By early 40s: Egg count drops sharply.
- Egg quality: Higher proportion of abnormal eggs as women age, making it harder to conceive naturally and increasing miscarriage risk.
Why Consider Oocyte Cryopreservation?
- Delaying parenthood for career, education, or personal reasons.
- Medical treatments (such as chemotherapy) that could damage ovarian reserve.
- Genetic conditions that may affect egg quantity or quality.
- Personal or family history of early menopause.
Oocyte Vitrification (Freezing Technique)
We use vitrification, a rapid “flash freezing” method, to preserve eggs.
- Process: Eggs are cooled from 98°F to -320°F in less than 1 second.
- Advantage: Prevents ice crystal formation that could damage cells.
- Survival rate: Approximately 95% of vitrified eggs survive the freezing and thawing process.
Benefits of Oocyte Cryopreservation
- Preserves fertility at a younger, healthier stage.
- Increases chances of future pregnancy success.
- Reduces miscarriage risk caused by age-related chromosomal abnormalities.
- Provides flexibility in family planning.