Elective egg freezing: State of the ART

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Gynecology
• Fertility Preservation

Background:

• Increasing trend of women delaying childbirth.
• Rising prevalence of involuntary childlessness.
• Growing use of elective oocyte cryopreservation for fertility safeguarding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on the practical management of non-medical oocyte freezing.
• To guide patient counseling and selection for oocyte cryopreservation.

Main Methods:

• Review of latest studies on oocyte cryopreservation outcomes.
• Analysis of factors influencing oocyte freezing success and utilization.

Main Results:

• Younger women are less likely to utilize their frozen oocytes.
• Live birth rates significantly decrease with oocytes frozen at older ages.
• Oocyte cryopreservation involves substantial financial costs and potential complications.

Conclusions:

• Patient selection and realistic expectations are critical for successful oocyte freezing.
• Comprehensive counseling is essential for women considering elective oocyte cryopreservation.
• Oocyte freezing is a tool for fertility preservation but does not guarantee pregnancy.