What is Egg Freezing?

Egg freezing or Oocyte Cryopreservation has gained attention in recent years as a technique to preserve fertility, after celebrities like actress Mona Singh and Priyanka Chopra spoke publicly about freezing their eggs. Chopra has encouraged women to embrace egg freezing as a “gift to self”.

Overview of Egg Freezing

Egg freezing is a clinical procedure where a woman’s eggs (oocytes) are extracted and stored at cool temperatures. This enables women to preserve their future fertility as they get older. Health experts consider it generally safe and effective, though misconceptions exist.

The process involves stimulating the ovaries with hormone injections to collect mature eggs. While the injections may cause temporary weight gain, there is no evidence they increase cancer risk.

Addressing Misconceptions

Some misconceptions exist around egg freezing, like concerns over safety, efficacy, and potential health impacts. However, recent advances have improved success rates, offering reassurance.

Egg freezing is considered invasive and time-consuming. Some doubt the potential of frozen eggs to result in successful future pregnancies. But improved techniques have increased outcomes for those wishing to freeze eggs for medical, career, or personal reasons.

Prevalence

Today, egg freezing or oocyte cryopreservation is increasingly preferred by women looking to preserve fertility for various reasons. The technique empowers women to take control of their reproductive health.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2024