Should I Freeze My Eggs?
As a licensed therapist who specializes in fertility, I hear this question a lot. I have sat with countless individuals debating this question- “Should I freeze my eggs?”. While egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, has become more common, there are still a lot questions and feelings that can come up during the process. This is a personal decision and of course deserves the utmost respect, thoughtfulness, and consideration. Here are a few steps to get you started in this important decision making process.
1. Do your research
When making this decision, it’s important to do your own research and check out the facts. There are still a lot of misconceptions and assumptions out there about egg freezing that could inadvertently contribute to negative thought patterns and anxiety. Your research will help you make an informed decision and often reduces anxiety.
Consider researching the following to support your decision:
the actual medical procedure and process
the risks and benefits of the procedure
cost
doctors in your area
2. Explore your feelings and beliefs
In addition to making an informed decision regarding logistics, it is important to consider the emotional aspect of the decision. You’re thinking about your future and looking out for your future self. This decision may also have additional contributing factors including age, health status, family history, gender, and sex that are important to consider.
Here are some questions for deeper reflection:
What does freezing your eggs mean to you?
Was this procedure recommended by your doctor and if so, how does that feel?
What do you want your future to look like?
What values guide your decisions about the future?
Can you imagine your life with children? Without children?
Are there any prerequisites you have before having children (i.e. partner, age, income, etc)?
What are your feelings about IVF in the future?
3. Build a support team
When considering this procedure, many find it helpful to build a support network. This may include friends and family to share your experience, support with medication administration, and attending appointments. Having a therapist who is knowledgeable of the egg retrieval process can add to your support system as well. I’ve walked this process with many and have observed the positive impact of social support.
4. Give yourself compassion
Although there has been headway with destigmatizing egg freezing, it can be a challenging process physically and emotionally. Everyone is different, but it is normal to experience a wide range of emotions and thoughts. Make it a point to treat yourself with compassion through the decision making process, and if you decide to move forward with the egg retrieval and freezing process- being kind to yourself throughout as well.
Authentic LA Therapy specializes in supporting those exploring egg freezing, decision making, and going through the egg retrieval process. We offer compassionate, non biased care and are focused on helping you do what’s best for you.
Additional Resources and Support
https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/obgyn/fertility/egg-freezing
https://www.scrcivf.com/egg-freezing-success-rates/
https://www.havingbabies.com/blog-list/egg-freezing-process/