Women's Health Problems and Solutions

Why Freezing Eggs Is A Smart Option For Preserving Fertility In The Future?

Women's Health

2 May 2025

8 mins

Why Freezing Eggs Is A Smart Option For Preserving Fertility In The Future?More and more women today are postponing motherhood, not because they don’t want kids, but because they want the right time, the right partner, or simply the space to build their lives first. But biology? It doesn’t always wait. That’s where egg freezing steps in, not as a last resort, but as a smart, proactive choice. In India, conversations around fertility preservation are finally picking up. What was once whispered about in fertility clinics is now openly discussed among friends, doctors, and even in boardrooms. From rising interest in metro cities to celebrities sharing their stories, egg freezing is no longer a hush-hush topic; it’s a tool many women are exploring to take control of their future. In this blog, we’ll break down what egg freezing really means and if you’ve ever wondered whether it could be the right choice for you (or someone you know), keep reading. You might be surprised at just how empowering it can be. WHAT DOES FREEZING EGGS MEAN? Let’s simplify. Freezing eggs, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a method where a woman’s eggs are harvested, frozen, and stored for future use. When she’s ready to get pregnant (maybe years later), those eggs can be thawed, fertilised with sperm, and implanted into the uterus. It’s like hitting the pause button on your fertility, but in a totally safe, medically-backed way. WHY ARE SO MANY WOMEN OPTING FOR THIS? A woman’s fertility declines with age, especially after 35. Yet, the average age of motherhood is rising. Careers, education, finances, and not finding the right partner (ugh, dating apps) are all valid reasons women choose to wait. And the numbers are speaking loud and clear. A study [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38164426/] analysing data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21) found that the prevalence of infertility in India among women married for at least five years is approximately 18.7 per 1,000 women. HOW DOES EGG FREEZING WORK? You’re not alone if you’re wondering how egg freezing works. It's a pretty common question. Here's a simple breakdown of the egg freezing process: 1. Hormonal stimulation: You’ll take hormone injections for 10–14 days to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. 2. Egg retrieval: Once your eggs are mature, a doctor collects them using a minor procedure under sedation. 3. Freezing: The eggs are frozen using a method called vitrification and stored safely in a lab. That’s it! Think of it as your fertility insurance policy. IS THERE A BEST AGE TO FREEZE EGGS? Absolutely. The egg freezing age limit varies, but fertility experts agree that the best age to freeze eggs is between 27 and 35 years. Why? Because younger eggs = better quality = higher chances of success later on. You can freeze your eggs up to age 40 (some clinics accept older), but the chances of a successful pregnancy decrease as you age. Quality matters more than quantity here. Dr. Prachi Benara [https://birlafertility.com/blogs/best-age-to-freeze-your-eggs], a seasoned fertility expert, emphasises, "The best age for freezing your eggs is generally before 35, as egg quality and quantity decline significantly after this age." Supporting this, a study [https://link.springer.com/epdf/10.1007/s10815-020-01791-w?sharing_token=5aJMPlNNTd2Lpy55EKMYUfe4RwlQNchNByi7wbcMAY52MkJi-03fy3R8QlAUPDUXI7F-oi_YXVldV0sf3AKhF6vLMpipo1fUorXJhOToCt5qlLs07g20-OrtikK0T3uGl7gWuuwJnFR_oK_wErpuO9oyTnBD-c-caiJgQ7uj3YE=] published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics indicates that a woman under 35 will need approximately nine eggs to achieve a 70% chance of having at least one live birth. However, if you're trying to conceive in your mid to late 30s, you may need twice as many eggs to achieve that same 70% success rate. [https://www.cofertility.com/freeze-learn/a-breakdown-of-egg-freezing-success-rates-by-age?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Moreover, data from FertilityIQ [https://www.fertilityiq.com/fertilityiq/articles/how-many-frozen-eggs-guarantees-success] reveals that women who stored 10 eggs after the age of 35 had a 30% success rate, whereas women under 35 with the same number of eggs had twice that success rate. In summary, while egg freezing is possible up to age 40, the optimal window is between 27 and 35 years, where the balance between egg quality and quantity offers the highest chances of future pregnancy success. IS EGG FREEZING PAINFUL? We won’t sugarcoat it. The idea of injecting hormones into your belly and undergoing a procedure can feel intimidating. But according to most women, it’s uncomfortable, not painful. You might experience bloating, mild cramping, or mood swings, think PMS on steroids (literally). But it's temporary and manageable. Dr. Rajendra Shitole [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/getting-pregnant/as-interest-in-egg-freezing-increases-busting-a-few-myths-about-this-assisted-reproduction-method/photostory/101784359.cms], IVF Consultant and Endoscopic Surgeon at DPU Private Super Speciality Hospital, Pimpri, Pune, says, “Egg freezing is generally considered safe and has become a routine procedure.” HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FREEZE EGGS IN INDIA? Let’s talk about the cost because egg freezing is an empowering choice, but it doesn’t come cheap. The cost of egg freezing in India typically ranges between ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 for the initial cycle. This includes ovarian stimulation drugs, hormone injections, ultrasound monitoring, and the egg retrieval procedure. The medications alone can account for about ₹50,000 to ₹80,000, depending on your hormonal response and the clinic’s protocol. According to a study published in the Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences (JHRS), the average cost for elective egg freezing in India is around ₹1.2 lakh per cycle, though this can vary widely between metros and tier-2 cities. After retrieval, the eggs are frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at -196°C. Storage fees generally range from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per year, depending on the clinic. So if you freeze your eggs at age 30 and choose to store them for 5 years, you’re looking at a total of approximately ₹2 to ₹3.5 lakhs over that period. WHERE CAN YOU FREEZE EGGS IN INDIA? Many top-tier hospitals and fertility centres across India offer this service, including: * Apollo Fertility (multiple cities) * Cloudnine Fertility (Pan India) * Nova IVF Fertility (30+ locations) * Fortis La Femme (Delhi, Bengaluru) * Morpheus IVF & Medicover Fertility These clinics follow international cryopreservation protocols and are staffed by reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, and counsellors to support your fertility journey. ARE THERE ANY SUBSIDIES OR SCHEMES? While egg freezing is not yet covered by insurance in most cases, some clinics offer EMIs or financial plans to make it more accessible. A few corporates (like Google, Meta, and Apple globally) also offer egg freezing benefits to employees, and this trend is slowly catching on in India, especially in the tech and finance sectors. As of now, no government subsidy or Ayushman Bharat scheme directly covers elective egg freezing, though fertility preservation for cancer patients [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/fertility-and-pregnancy-during-breast-cancer] may be partially covered in certain public healthcare programs or NGOs. DOES FREEZING EGGS AFFECT FUTURE FERTILITY? On the contrary, it preserves it. Freezing your eggs doesn’t reduce your chances of conceiving naturally in the future. In fact, it can improve your odds by giving you access to younger, healthier eggs later on. Dr. Mallika Solanki [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/pregnancy/is-freezing-eggs-the-right-move-for-future-moms/articleshow/114422010.cms], Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, explains, “Freezing eggs does not harm the remaining ovarian reserve or reproductive function, and many women successfully conceive using frozen eggs without long-term complications.” WHAT IS THE BIGGEST RISK OF EGG FREEZING? Egg freezing is considered a safe and effective fertility preservation method, but it’s not without potential risks. The most serious, though rare, complication is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This occurs when the ovaries over-respond to fertility medications, causing them to swell and leak fluid. While mild OHSS (abdominal bloating, nausea) affects up to 33% of women, severe cases marked by rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, or blood clots occur in less than 1%. Other possible side effects include: * Abdominal bloating * Breast tenderness * Temporary weight gain * Mood swings * Constipation [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/types-of-constipation] * Mild pelvic discomfort Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/pcos-symptoms-treatment] may be more prone to complications. Fortunately, most symptoms are short-lived, and advancements in hormone protocols have significantly reduced severe outcomes. Doctors now tailor medication doses, monitor patients closely, and may use a “freeze-only” strategy to minimise OHSS risk. Staying hydrated and following your doctor’s guidance during stimulation is essential for a safe and smooth recovery. SO… IS IT ACTUALLY SUCCESSFUL? Good question! The success of egg freezing depends on several factors, such as age at freezing, number of eggs retrieved, and overall health. But here are some optimistic stats: * Women under 35 who freeze 10–15 eggs have a 60–70% chance of live birth later. * Success rates are improving thanks to advanced vitrification techniques. In 2022 [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/05/220526181147.htm], a study published in Fertility and Sterility reported that women who froze eggs before 35 and used them later had similar success rates to IVF using fresh eggs [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/complete-guide-ivf-treatment-medicines]. That's huge! WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EGG FREEZING? Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, offers women the opportunity to preserve their fertility for future family planning. While it provides several advantages, it's essential to consider the associated risks and limitations. Advantages: * Preservation of Fertility: Freezing eggs at a younger age allows women to use healthier eggs later, potentially reducing the risk of age-related infertility. * Reproductive Autonomy: Provides flexibility for women to delay childbearing due to personal, professional, or medical reasons. * Medical Necessity: Beneficial for women undergoing treatments like chemotherapy [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/chemotherapy-breast-cancer] that may affect fertility. Disadvantages: * Cost: The procedure can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. * Medical Risks: Involves hormone injections and egg retrieval, which carry risks such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). * No Guarantee: While success rates have improved, there's no certainty of achieving pregnancy from frozen eggs. It's crucial to consult with a fertility specialist to understand the potential outcomes and make an informed decision. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) Q. 1) Should you freeze your eggs? Egg freezing can be a good option for women who want to delay childbearing for personal, professional, or medical reasons. It allows you to preserve your fertility at a younger age, ensuring healthier eggs for future use. However, it’s important to consider the costs, medical risks, and the fact that it doesn’t guarantee a successful pregnancy. Q. 2) What is the best age to freeze eggs? The best age to freeze eggs is between 27 and 35 years, as this is when egg quality and quantity are optimal. Freezing eggs earlier increases the chances of success, as eggs are healthier and more viable for future use. Q. 3) How successful is egg freezing? Women under 35 who freeze their eggs have up to a 70% success rate if enough eggs are retrieved and stored. Success rates decline as women age, particularly after 38, as egg quality diminishes over time. Q. 4) Why Did Priyanka Chopra Freeze Her Eggs? Priyanka Chopra froze her eggs in her early 30s on the advice of her mother, a physician, so she could focus on her career without the pressure of fertility concerns. This is a growing trend among women, especially in India, who are planning their futures and choosing to delay motherhood. Q. 5) What Are the Benefits of Freezing Your Eggs? Egg freezing allows women to preserve fertility for future family planning, reducing age-related infertility concerns. It provides reproductive flexibility, especially for those facing medical treatments or those who aren’t ready for children but want to ensure options in the future. Q. 6) Does freezing eggs stop periods? No, freezing eggs does not stop your periods. Your menstrual cycle and ovulation will continue as usual during the egg retrieval process. Only the eggs that would naturally be released that month are harvested, and it does not impact your overall egg count or cause early menopause [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/manage-menopause-symptoms]. IT’S YOUR TIMELINE, YOUR RULES. Egg freezing offers women the opportunity to take control of their reproductive future, providing flexibility to delay motherhood without sacrificing fertility. While it can be an empowering option for those focusing on their careers, personal goals, or medical treatments, it’s important to weigh the costs, risks, and success rates. Consulting with a fertility specialist is essential to make an informed decision tailored to your unique needs. Take charge of your timeline and ensure you have the options available when you’re ready. READ ALSO * MrMed Women's Health Library [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health] * Can Diabetes Cause Infertility in Women? [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/can-diabetes-cause-infertility-in-females] REFERENCES 1. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome/ [https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome/] 2. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2019/egg-consumption-linked-higher-risk-heart-disease-and-death [https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2019/egg-consumption-linked-higher-risk-heart-disease-and-death] 3. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2022/07/having-kids-later-life [https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2022/07/having-kids-later-life] 4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25881876/ [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25881876/]

Dr. Tejashwin Adiga

Health, Rights, and Equality A Day to End FGM

Women's Health

6 Feb 2024

10mins

International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation"Her voice rises, breaking the silence, With strength and courage, she defies violence. Hand in hand, we stand as one, To end FGM—our fight is not done." On February 6th each year, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), shining a spotlight on an important issue. Female genital mutilation, a deeply concerning practice, involves altering or harming the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is recognised universally as a FGM human rights violation. According to UNICEF, an estimated 230 million girls worldwide have undergone FGM, with over 4.6 million at risk in 2025 alone. While progress is being made in many countries, the challenge persists. With high population growth in many regions, there is an urgent need to accelerate the global fight against FGM to end this harmful practice. The objective of this blog is to raise awareness about this harmful practice and serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of girls and women everywhere, ensuring they live free from harm and discrimination. FGM DAY THEME 2025 UNFPA and UNICEF are working together to stop Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). They lead a big global plan focusing on 17 countries. This plan will also help regional and worldwide efforts. In 2012, the UN General Assembly made February 6th an International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, saying "No" to FGM. This day aims to raise awareness and focus attention on stopping this harmful practice, which has a profound impact on women’s health. By highlighting the physical, emotional, and psychological consequences of FGM, the UN encourages global action to protect women and girls from its devastating effects. This year, the International Day of Zero Tolerance to female genital mutilation has a special theme: "Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM". It Is about supporting groups led by survivors to stop FGM. In India, there is currently no law specifically banning Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C). However, a petition was filed in 2017 seeking a complete ban on the practice, which remains pending in the Supreme Court. Internationally, FGM/C violates multiple human rights conventions, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which India has ratified, obligating the state to take action against such harmful practices. WHAT IS FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION? Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to the harmful practice of intentionally altering or injuring a girl's genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is often carried out using sharp instruments in unsafe conditions, usually targeting girls between infancy and the age of 15. This practice is sometimes referred to as female circumcision or cutting. Key points about FGM: * Unsafe Procedures: FGM is typically performed with knives or other sharp tools, often in unsanitary conditions. * Global Prevalence: Over 200 million girls and women worldwide [https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-protection/female-genital-mutilation/] have undergone FGM, and each year, more than 3 million girls are at risk. * Regions Affected: FGM is most common in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as among migrant communities from these areas. * Legal Status: Many countries have laws banning FGM, but the practice still persists in certain communities. * Human Rights Violation: FGM is widely considered a violation of the rights of girls and women, and efforts are ongoing globally to eliminate it. Even if performed by medical professionals, FGM is not deemed safer and remains a serious violation of human rights. WHY IS FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION (FGM) PRACTICED? Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is typically performed on girls at a young age, sometimes even on infants or teenagers, and in some cases, it is done on adult women as well. The reasons for this practice vary by region, with some communities viewing it as a necessary step for a girl to transition into adulthood and become eligible for marriage. In many societies, FGM is considered a social obligation, with individuals feeling immense pressure to conform to societal expectations, fearing rejection if they do not comply. Additionally, there is a widespread belief that FGM is tied to notions of sexual propriety. Even in countries where FGM is not traditionally practised, such as certain parts of Europe, the issue persists. Globalisation and immigration have contributed to an increasing number of girls and women being at risk each year. HARSH REALITY OF FGM: THE STATISTICS OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a grave violation of human rights across the globe, with societies practising it through the ages. Here are statistics on Female Genital Mutilation from UNICEF: Details Figures Girls at risk in 20254.6 million girlsThe daily increase in at-risk girls12,000 girls per dayGirls at risk from 2015 to 2030 (UNFPA)68 million girlsGirls at risk in Europe annually180,000 women and girlsAdditional risk due to COVID-192 million more girls at risk Protecting these vulnerable girls demands an urgent and concerted effort to accelerate the elimination of this harmful and often deadly practice. WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF FGM? The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies this procedure into four types. Types Description Type I (Clitoridectomy) Partial or complete removal of the clitoris, which is a small, sensitive, erectile region of the female genitals. In some rare cases, only the prepuce (the fold of skin around the clitoris) may be removed. Type II (Excision) Partial or complete removal of both the clitoris and the labia minora (inner folds of the vulva). It may also involve the removal of the labia majora (outer folds), with or without excising the labia minora. Type III (Infibulation) The vaginal entrance is narrowed by forming a covering seal. This is done by cutting and repositioning the labia minora or majora, sometimes with stitching. In some cases, the clitoris may also be removed. Type IV Includes any additional harmful non-medical treatments, such as piercing, incising, or pricking of the female genitalia, that are not categorised under Types I, II, or III. WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF FGM? 1. SHORT-TERM CONSEQUENCES: FGM in the short term may lead to severe complications such as: * Experience immediate pain, excessive bleeding, and swelling. * Face risks of infection, urinary and vaginal issues, and menstrual complications. * Encounter sexual and psychological challenges. * Struggle with pregnancy and childbirth difficulties. 2. LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES: Long-term consequences include: * Urinary problems (painful urination, urinary tract infections [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/urinary-tract-infections]), * Vaginal problems (discharge, itching, bacterial vaginosis, and other infections), * Menstrual issues (e.g., painful menstruations, difficulty in passing menstrual blood), * Keloid formation on the scar tissue, * Sexual issues (e.g., pain during intercourse, decreased satisfaction), * Increased risk of childbirth complications (e.g., perineal tear, difficult or prolonged labour, Increased rate of cesarean section and postpartum haemorrhage, increased need for newborn resuscitation), * In rare cases, newborn babies may die. FAQS 1. Is there a link between female genital mutilation and the risk of HIV infection? There isn't a clear, direct association between FGM and HIV. However, sharing instruments during the procedure or experiencing laceration of scar tissue during intercourse may increase HIV [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/hiv-stigma-discrimination] risk. 2. What are the psychological effects of female genital mutilation? FGM can lead to psychological issues like post-traumatic stress disorder [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/mental-wellness/relieve-mental-stress], anxiety [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/mental-wellness/anxiety-panic-attack], depression [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/mental-wellness/depression-symptoms-causes-treatment], and physical complaints without organic cause. 3. Which types of FGM are most common? Types I and II are globally the most common, with Type III (infibulation) being practised by about 10% of affected women, primarily in Somalia, Sudan, and Djibouti. 4. Where does the practice of FGM come from? The origins are unclear, but it has been practised across ages and continents. Historically, various cultures, including early Romans, Arabs, and African tribes, practised forms of female circumcision. 5. Is FGM practised in India? FGM is documented in 92 countries worldwide. It's most common in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and even in countries like Australia, the United States, and parts of Europe. Shockingly, in India, FGM is practised among the Bohra community in Mumbai [https://www.hindustantimes.com/static/fgm-indias-dark-secret/]. 6. Who performs FGM? Typically, elderly community members, often women or traditional birth attendants, carry out FGM. In some cases, health workers also perform it, leading to what's known as the "medicalisation" of FGM. According to UNFPA, Over 20 million girls and women have undergone FGM at the hands of healthcare providers [https://www.unicef.org/sites/default/files/2019-02/Factsheet%20FGM-Medicalization-2018-06-15.pdf] (medicalisation of FGM), with Egypt and Sudan accounting for 78% and 77%, respectively. 7. What instruments are used for FGM? Special knives, scissors, scalpels, pieces of glass, or razor blades are commonly used. Anaesthetics and antiseptics are generally not used except in medical settings. In communities practising infibulation, girls' legs may be bound together to immobilise them during healing. THE BOTTOM LINE As mentioned, FGM is practised for reasons like religion, cultural beliefs, and the desire to protect virginity before marriage. Despite international efforts to end it, many countries still struggle to enforce laws against FGM. On International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM 2025, it’s crucial for communities to unite to end this harmful practice. We must prioritise human rights, ensuring equality for all and addressing the health needs of women and girls affected by FGM. Women and girls are key to making progress, as their leadership fosters a more equal society. Together, we can raise awareness and prevent FGM to protect every girl and woman, contributing to the global movement of ending FGM. Remember, "Health comes before beliefs; let's stand strong and unite to end FGM." "#unit2endfgm" REFERENCES 1. Klein E, Helzner E, Shayowitz M, Kohlhoff S, Smith-Norowitz TA. Female Genital Mutilation: Health Consequences and Complications-A Short Literature Review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6079349/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6079349/] 2. Galgano AC, Kikuchi JY. Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting. [Updated 2024 Aug 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606106/ [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606106/] 3. https://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation [https://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation]

Dr Deva Prasath S