Preserving Your Fertility Ocean Grove
Care that respects your individual needs.
Your Future, Your Choice
If starting a family is on your mind but the timing isn’t quite right, egg freezing may be an option worth exploring. Egg freezing is a form of fertility preservation; it allows your eggs to be stored safely until you feel ready to use them.
At Surfcoast Fertility, our team is here to offer supportive, personalised care to help you navigate your fertility options.
About the Egg Freezing Process
Egg freezing is a procedure in which a woman’s unfertilised eggs are collected, frozen, and stored until they are needed. To prepare for egg collection, the woman undergoes an Ovarian Stimulation Cycle, a process comparable to that used in IVF.
Once collected, the eggs are frozen and stored until the time comes to use them. It is worth noting that egg quality can decline as a woman ages, which may mean that more eggs need to be frozen to achieve the same likelihood of a live birth.
Who is Egg Freezing For?
Egg freezing may be considered for a variety of personal reasons. It is perhaps more commonly explored by women who:
- Do not have immediate plans to start a family
- Are navigating busy or demanding professional responsibilities
- Are in their 30s or 40s and would like the option of having two or three children
- Have a family history of early menopause
- Have a history of ovarian damage, such as endometriomas or previous removal of an ovary
- Are anticipating the need for chemotherapy in the coming period
Would you like to start exploring your options for future family planning?
Please feel free to get in touch with our team to talk through your options.
The Egg Freezing Process Explained
1. Hormonal Stimulation
Hormonal stimulation is usually commenced approximately 10-12 days prior to egg collection. The purpose of this process is to help stimulate the ovaries so that multiple eggs may be produced.
2. Egg Collection
Once ready, the eggs are collected during a procedure that uses an ultrasound-guided probe. A fine needle attached to the probe is then used to collect the eggs from the ovary.
3. Egg Freezing
After collection, the eggs are vitrified, a process in which the water contained within each egg is replaced with a protective fluid. They are then frozen using liquid nitrogen at -196°C and kept in storage for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egg Freezing
What can I expect in terms of discomfort during egg collection?
The egg collection procedure is usually performed under a light anaesthetic or sedation in an effort to reduce any pain or discomfort you may experience.
How long is it possible to store frozen eggs?
Your eggs may be stored for many years without harm. In some states, there may be laws governing how long they can be held. However, this can often be extended with approval.
What are the costs involved in egg freezing?
The costs associated with egg freezing can vary based on individual circumstances. Medicare may also provide coverage for egg freezing where it is considered medically necessary. To learn more, please reach out to your Surfcoast Fertility consultant or visit our costs page.
Why Choose Surfcoast Fertility?
Understanding
At Surfcoast Fertility, we believe that every patient deserves to be treated with compassion and respect throughout their fertility journey.
Highly Trained
Every member of our team is trained in current fertility practices to provide high-quality, patient-centred care.
Reliable Hours
With clinic hours running Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, we aim to make it as convenient as possible for you to schedule your appointments.
Start Your Egg Freezing Journey With Us
Whatever your circumstances, fertility preservation may be a worthwhile way to plan ahead for your future family. With access to the latest egg freezing technology and evidence-based care, our team is here to support you as you explore your fertility goals. Get in touch today or book an appointment to take the first step.
