Reproductive technology gives options for women who want to delay parenthood

Dr Zaib Awan

Fertility Consultant

Freezing your eggs can preserve your fertility, according to a leading fertility consultant, explaining the step-by-step process for egg retrieval.

Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is a reproductive technology that allows women to preserve their fertility by extracting and freezing eggs. This process offers women the option of delaying parenthood, often due to their career, personal circumstances or medical conditions such as endometriosis or cancer. It is also becoming a viable option for LGBTQIA+ individuals looking to start a family. Dr Zaib Awan, Fertility Consultant, explains: “Egg freezing empowers women by giving them control of their reproductive future.”

When is the best time to freeze your eggs?

“Age plays a big role in fertility. The best time to freeze your eggs is mid-20s to mid-30s when egg quality and quantity is at its peak.” Dr Awan says. “Lifestyle choices are extremely important. Prioritising a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and supplementation can enhance fertility outcomes.”

Egg freezing empowers women
by giving them control of
their reproductive future.

The step-by-step process

1. Initial consultation: A detailed medical and fertility assessment, including blood tests and an ultrasound to evaluate ovarian reserve.
2. Ovarian stimulation: Hormone injections for 10–12 days to stimulate egg production, with monitoring via blood tests and ultrasounds.
3. Egg retrieval: A minor procedure under conscious sedation, which may cause mild discomfort, using ultrasound guidance to collect eggs from the ovaries.
4. Freezing and storage: Mature eggs are frozen and stored for future use. The legal storage limit is 10 years, extendable up to the age of 51.

“The patient will be fully informed throughout the whole process, with combined care from both the medical team and nursing staff,” assures Dr Awan.

Is egg freezing right for you?

“Egg freezing does not guarantee pregnancy, and success rates vary depending on age and number of eggs retrieved.” Dr Awan advises. “Think of it as a backup plan, a proactive step that can provide peace of mind for women.” While costs vary by clinic, they typically range from €3,000 to €4,000, and financial aid options such as the drug payment scheme can help manage payments. “This empowering reproductive technology is allowing women to take control of their fertility,” she adds.