We know there is a lack of education and knowledge about fertility and egg freezing. We collected common questions and answered them below.
How do medical and social freezing differ?
In general, it is the same process.
Cryopreservation is referred to as medical freezing when done for medical reasons, such as for women diagnosed with cancer needing chemotherapy or those with endometriosis or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), both of which can impact fertility.
Social freezing is done for personal reasons, like wanting to plan motherhood at a later stage. Public health insurance in Germany does not cover the costs for social freezing.
How can I determine my fertility status?
An important first step is a fertility test. The AMH test measures the Anti-Müllerian Hormone to indicate how many eggs a woman has left. This test is the first step in ssessing one's fertility.
Note: The AMH value does not indicate the quality of the
eggs, only the reserve.
How does an egg freezing process look like?
Here's a brief overview of the steps.
1. First Consultation and Ultrasound
The process starts with comprehensive counseling by a reproductive medicine specialist. An ultrasound and an AMH test (if not already done) are performed to assess the ovarian reserve.
2. Hormonal Stimulation
During this phase, women administer daily hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries to mature multiple eggs at once. Stimulation usually begins on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle and lasts about 10 to 14 days.
3. Monitoring
Regular ultrasound examinations are conducted to monitor the development of the eggs. Blood tests are also performed to check hormone levels and adjust medication dosages accordingly.
4. Triggering Ovulation
Once the eggs are sufficiently mature, a final injection (trigger shot) is administered to induce ovulation. Egg retrieval is planned approximately 34 to 36 hours after this injection.
5. Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval is a minimally invasive procedure performed under short-term anesthesia. The eggs are suctioned out using a fine needle inserted through the vagina.
6. Assessment and Cryopreservation:
The eggs are evaluated under a microscope in the laboratory to select those of the highest quality. Selected eggs are then quickly frozen using a specialized procedure and transferred for long-term storage.
How much does egg freezing cost?
The costs for egg freezing vary depending on the clinic and the specific requirements of the patient.
Typically, the total costs for the process, including medication and retrieval, range between €3,500 and €4,000. Annual fees for storing the eggs usually range from €250 to €350.
How can egg freezing shape your future?
Social freezing allows women to proactively decide on their reproductive future. An early fertility test is advisable to gain an initial understanding. Consulting with a specialist is recommended to make an informed decision regarding one's future.
The costs vary depending on the clinic, but addressing financial aspects early on is essential. It's also worth looking into financing options to reduce financial strain.