Debunking Top Myths About Egg Freezing

Real talk: Not everything you’ve heard about egg-freezing is legit. We’re here to separate facts from fiction.

#1: I’ve heard egg retrieval hurts. Like a lot.

Some pain can be expected. But a lot? No. There are daily needles: hormone injections and blood tests, which are more annoying and confusing than anything. But during the actual procedure, you’ll be sedated and given IV pain meds, so you won’t feel anything then. Some pain and discomfort for a few days after retrieval is common, but you’ll be back to normal by your next cycle.

#2: Egg-freezing is super-expensive, right? There’s no way I could afford it.

It’s not cheap, but that last part is definitely just a myth. Regardless of your income level, you have options to help you pay to freeze your eggs: health insurance, utilizing your tax-free health savings account (HSA), and payment plans offered by your clinic.

#3: You have to give yourself shots. That sounds scary.

Yep, there are different needles involved of varying sizes. Luckily, our fertility specialists can handle all of the fertility drug mixing and administration of the shots so you don’t have to DIY. We all have enough going on, becoming chemists and doctors doesn’t have to be one of them.

#4: All those hormones I have to take will turn me into a hot mess.

Yes, you will be hormonal, but it’s short-lived so as long as you’re prepared for it you’ll get through it. What do they say, don’t make any big decisions when you’re tired or hungry? Well, add egg freezing to the list. I’d wait to change your relationship or career or where you live until after your retrieval is complete. We have hormone and mental health experts who will guide you through what to expect.

#5: Speaking of those hormones: I heard they’ll eff with my body long-term.

Nope. The hormones you’ll take are ones that are naturally produced by your body and don’t have lasting effects. You’ll likely be taking follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) to stimulate your eggs and then human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to help them mature. Hormones hit peaks and valleys at different times during your menstrual cycle anyway. They’ll dwindle back down to their normal levels after the retrieval.

#6: If I don’t freeze my eggs right now in my 20s, I won’t be able to do it later.

False. While grabbing those eggs in your mid-20s is ideal, you can still do it well into your 30s. If you’re not ready yet, it’s OK. Deep breaths. You have some time.

#7: If I freeze my eggs now, I won’t have any left later.

Definitely not true. One cycle typically retrieves 10 to 20 eggs. Considering most women in their late 30s still have tens of thousands of eggs, you’ll be just fine.

Ready to get started? Book a consultation with a Lushi fertility specialist today.