Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with egg and sperm freezing and storage?
Egg and sperm freezing are generally safe, but some risks and side effects exist.
For egg freezing, risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) from hormonal medications, potential complications from egg retrieval, and emotional stress from the uncertainty of future pregnancies.
In sperm freezing, potential risks include sperm damage during the freezing/thawing process and psychological concerns. Long-term storage for both is safe. Both procedures have small surgical risks, especially if biopsies are required. Please consult with our fertility specialist to clarify individual risks.
Do ovarian stimulation medications worsen my cancer condition and prolong my treatment?
Ovarian stimulation medications, such as those used during fertility treatments, typically do not worsen cancer or significantly prolong cancer treatment. Still, it depends on the type of cancer and the patient's overall health.
It’s essential to discuss with your fertility specialist and oncologist to weigh the risks and benefits based on your type of cancer and treatment plan.
What are the female fertility preservation options?
We offer two options:
- Egg freezing: We collect your eggs and freeze them immediately.
- Embryo freezing: We fertilize your eggs with your spouse's sperm and freeze the resulting embryos.
Does the egg retrieval process hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some mild cramping is normal afterward.
Would I have enough time to undergo oocyte cryopreservation before my cancer treatment starts?
There is often very little time between cancer diagnosis and treatment. Given the time sensitivity of the procedure, please consult your oncologist and fertility specialist about your treatment plan and schedule.
Is there an optimal number of eggs to store?
The number of eggs available for collection depends on your response to stimulation medication. Your fertility specialist can advise you on the optimum number of eggs to retrieve for storage.
How do I use my frozen eggs/embryos in the future?
After completing cancer treatment and when you're ready to start a family, contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with our fertility specialist. We will coordinate with your oncologist to create a personalized treatment plan. When thawed, frozen eggs are typically of high quality.