Glossary · Definition · v2026.3
What Is Egg Freezing?
Egg freezing is the process of retrieving and cryopreserving unfertilized eggs for potential future use in IVF.
How Egg Freezing Works
The process follows the same ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval steps as a standard IVF cycle. After retrieval, mature eggs are frozen using vitrification rather than being fertilized immediately. The eggs can be stored indefinitely in liquid nitrogen until needed.
When Egg Freezing Is Considered
Egg freezing is used for fertility preservation before cancer treatment, elective preservation for patients who want to delay family building, and medical conditions that may affect future ovarian function. Eggs frozen at younger ages have higher survival and fertilization rates when thawed.
Why It Matters
Egg freezing preserves reproductive options. Outcomes depend on the number of eggs frozen and the age at which they were frozen.
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This content defines terminology for educational orientation. It does not constitute medical advice.
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