Egg freezing has revolutionised the landscape of fertility preservation, offering women the opportunity to extend their reproductive lifespan. It involves retrieving a woman's eggs (oocytes), freezing them, and storing them. This process serves as a means to safeguard reproductive potential in women of childbearing age. While ovarian stimulation is generally safe, it is not without risks and side effects. We spoke to Dr Sofia Rodrigues, Consultant – Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, who explained the risks and side effects of ovarian stimulation.
“Central to the success of egg freezing is ovarian stimulation, a process involving the administration of hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs”, said Dr Rodrigues.
According to the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), there are two methods for freezing eggs: slow-freezing and vitrification (flash-freezing). The latter is the recommended approach by relevant professional medical societies because it has enhanced pregnancy rates and increased oocyte survival after thawing.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
One of the primary risks associated with ovarian stimulation is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). “It occurs when the ovaries respond excessively to fertility drugs, leading to the development of multiple follicles and fluid accumulation in the abdomen and chest”, said Dr Rodrigues.
An individual with OHSS may experience mild to severe symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and shortness of breath. In rare cases, OHSS can progress to a life-threatening condition requiring hospitalisation and medical intervention.
According to the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, young age, low body mass index, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), and a history of OHSS are the main risk factors for OHSS.
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Discomfort and Inconvenience
In addition to OHSS, ovarian stimulation can also cause discomfort and inconvenience for women undergoing egg freezing.
“The hormonal medications used during ovarian stimulation can lead to side effects, such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings. These physical and emotional symptoms can significantly impact a woman's quality of life during the egg-freezing process, requiring careful management and support from healthcare providers”, highlighted Dr Rodrigues.
Long-Term Risks
Dr Rodrigues said, “There are potential long-term risks associated with ovarian stimulation that warrant consideration. There is a possible link between prolonged exposure to fertility drugs and an increased risk of ovarian and breast cancer.”
While the evidence is inconclusive, it highlights the importance of monitoring and research in this area to ensure the safety of women undergoing egg freezing for fertility preservation.
Balancing Risks and Benefits
Despite these risks, it's essential to recognise the significant benefits that egg freezing can offer to women seeking to preserve their fertility.
“For women facing medical treatments that may impact their reproductive health or those pursuing educational or career goals before starting a family, egg freezing provides a valuable option for future family planning”, added Dr Rodrigues. By weighing the risks and benefits of ovarian stimulation and egg freezing, women can make informed decisions about their reproductive choices.
Bottomline
Dr Rodrigues concluded, “While ovarian stimulation is a crucial component of the egg-freezing process, it is essential to be aware of the associated risks and side effects. From ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome to potential long-term health implications, women considering egg freezing must have access to comprehensive information and support to make informed decisions about their fertility preservation journey.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your gynaecologist if you face any reproductive issues.]