With reproductive choices being modified by progress in medical science, egg freezing is now a significant option for women who desire to preserve their fertility. Once considered a last resort for women in their late 30s or with medical issues, the debate is now moving towards whether women should freeze their eggs at the age of 20. As more young professionals are opting to bank their fertility, it is essential to be aware of the pros, cons, and implications.
We spoke to Dr Kshitiz Murdia, IVF Specialist, CEO and Co-Founder, Indira IVF, who explained if women should freeze their eggs in their 20s.
According to the Journal of Clinical Medicine, egg freezing for non-medical reasons is a method that allows women to safeguard their ability to conceive by freezing their eggs for later use. This is done through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and the cryopreservation of oocytes, enabling them to utilise their eggs in the future.
Why Consider Egg Freezing in Your 20s?
Fertility does decrease with age naturally, and freezing the eggs enables women to preserve their eggs during a younger, healthier age. "Freezing eggs in the mid-to-late 20s is ideal since it provides the best opportunities for a successful future pregnancy. Women in this 20s age group usually have better egg quality and higher ovarian reserve, which can improve the success rate of future conception when these eggs are utilised," explained Dr Murdia.
For most young professionals, career development, education, and personal ambitions come first before having a family. With greater access to birth control and shifting social norms, women are putting their goals first without the pressure of a biological clock. Egg freezing provides them with the freedom to pursue their ambitions while having viable reproductive choices in the future.
Furthermore, underlying medical conditions, such as premature ovarian failure or endometriosis can affect fertility early. Egg freezing at an early age ensures better quality eggs and lesser risks of complications later during attempts for pregnancy. In this way, women who are affected by these conditions can keep their opportunities of conception in the future secure.
Risks and Considerations of Egg Freezing
Although egg freezing is a realistic possibility, the potential risks and limitations should be recognised. "The procedure entails ovarian stimulation, which can result in temporary side effects like bloating, headaches, nausea, and abdominal pain. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) can, in rare instances, develop, necessitating medical treatment," said Dr Murdia.
The other important point to consider here is the money involved. The expense of freezing eggs, medication, and long-term storage, is not insignificant. Egg freezing adds a greater possibility of conception, but no guarantee of a successful pregnancy. Hence, women should approach fertility specialists with caution, consulting with them to make wise decisions based on their respective reproductive health conditions.
Also Read: Considering Egg Freezing For Preserving Fertility? Expert Lists Its Risks And Side Effects
The Future of Reproductive Choices
More than just a medical procedure, egg freezing is a move towards reproductive self-determination. Dr Murdia added, "The greater accessibility and success rates as technology improves make it a liberating option for women who want to seize control of their fertility. That said, freezing eggs at age 20 should be done after extensive medical consultation and full comprehension of both the benefits and difficulties."
"For women who want to prolong their childbearing window while pursuing other life goals, egg freezing in the 20s is an attractive option. Although not a requirement for everyone, it is a crucial advance in fertility protection that gives women the confidence to control their future on their own terms," he concluded.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]