Fertility Preservation: Planning for Your Future Family

Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)

The egg freezing process starts with stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This is usually done through hormonal injections that you can administer at home over the course of one to two weeks. Once the eggs have reached maturity, the egg retrieval process will take place. Under sedation, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries through the vagina using ultrasound guidance. After being carefully evaluated in the embryology lab, the eggs are rapidly frozen in a process called vitrification. This ensures that the eggs will remain safe in storage until they are ready to be used. The entire process usually takes two to three weeks, though timing can vary due to individual circumstances.

Sperm Banking (Sperm Cryopreservation)

Sperm banking is a straightforward, non-invasive process in which sperm samples are collected, frozen and stored for later use. Multiple samples are generally recommended to increase the chance of future success, so more than one visit may be necessary. However, the entire process can be done in a relatively short timeframe if necessary.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Embryo Freezing

With IVF/embryo freezing, a woman’s eggs are retrieved and fertilized in a lab with sperm from a partner or donor. The resulting embryos are then frozen via vitrification and can be stored until ready to be used. The timeline for embryo freezing varies depending on individual factors but generally takes about 2 – 3 weeks. Timing can be adapted to account for time-sensitive care when appropriate.

Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation

With this innovative procedure, an ovary is surgically removed and frozen. If or when the patient is ready to have children, the ovary is placed back into the body. Alternatively, the eggs from the ovary can be matured and later fertilized for pregnancy (a procedure called in vitro maturation), although this is currently an experimental procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the fertility preservation process take?

This depends on the type of fertility preservation selected. Sperm banking is a quick and non-invasive process that can be started immediately and completed in 1 to 3 visits. Egg and embryo freezing will take 2 – 3 weeks, starting with up to 2 weeks of hormone injections before the egg retrieval procedure. Your fertility specialist will provide you with a detailed timeline once you’ve selected the best fertility preservation option for you.

Can I freeze eggs/sperm if I'm already starting cancer treatment?

It is generally recommended to undergo fertility preservation before treatment begins. However, it may still be possible to freeze eggs or sperm after treatment begins if you act quickly. Sperm banking is a straightforward and quick process that can be done immediately. Egg cryopreservation usually takes 1 – 2 weeks of hormone injections before the retrieval procedure, so it’s important to begin the process as soon as possible. An experimental procedure known as in vitro maturation, in which immature eggs are removed from the ovaries and later matured in a laboratory, may be considered if time is extremely limited.

How long can frozen eggs remain viable?

When eggs are frozen and stored under the proper conditions, they can remain viable for years or decades without affecting quality. The age of the woman at the time her eggs are frozen is a better predictor of successful pregnancy than length of time the eggs were stored.

Are there fertility preservation options that don't require hormones or surgery?

For men, sperm freezing is an easy, non-surgical way to preserve fertility. In certain cases for both men and women, radiation shielding can be used during radiation treatment for cancer to help protect the ovaries or testicles from damage. Some proactive lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, reducing stress and minimizing exposure to environmental toxins, can help optimize existing fertility after cancer treatment. Speak with a fertility specialist for more information about the options available for your unique circumstances.

How do I access my frozen eggs/sperm when I'm ready to use them?

Frozen eggs, sperm and embryos that are being stored long-term are kept at the off-site storage provider ReproTech. When you are ready to use them you can contact the storage provider or the UH Fertility Center. Our team can coordinate with ReproTech for your eggs, sperm or embryos to be shipped back to UH to align with your treatment plan timeline.