IVF & fertility
Fertility preservation,more choice about when.
Freezing eggs, sperm or embryos for later.
- Treatment time
- Egg freezing about 2 weeks
- Downtime
- A day after retrieval
- Sessions
- Plan ahead
- Results
- Stored until you are ready
Overview
What is Fertility preservation?
Fertility preservation freezes eggs, sperm or embryos so they can be used later. It gives you more choice about when to start or grow your family.
People choose it for medical reasons, for example before cancer treatment, or for personal timing. Eggs are frozen by vitrification, a fast-freezing method that protects them well.
Benefits
- Egg, sperm and embryo freezing
- Vitrification for better survival on thawing
- Planned quickly when medical treatment is urgent
- Honest advice on how many eggs to aim for
Is it right for you?
Often a good fit for
- You are about to start cancer treatment or surgery that may affect fertility
- You want to delay starting a family
- You have a condition that can reduce egg reserve over time
We may advise waiting, or another option, with
- Freezing works best at a younger age. We review your egg reserve first and tell you honestly what to expect
Suitability is always confirmed in person, at your consultation.
How it works
01
Assessment
Egg reserve tests and an ultrasound, or a semen analysis, to plan the cycle.
02
Stimulation
For eggs, about 10 – 12 days of hormone injections with monitoring scans.
03
Collection
Eggs are collected under sedation. Sperm samples are collected on site.
04
Freezing and storage
Eggs, sperm or embryos are frozen and stored safely until you are ready.
Before and after
Before your visit
- Complete egg reserve testing
- Tell us about any upcoming medical treatment so we can plan quickly
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
Aftercare
- Rest for the remainder of the collection day
- Expect some bloating for a few days
- Keep your storage records and renewal dates safe
Possible side effects
- The same risks as IVF stimulation, including bloating and, rarely, OHSS
- Not every frozen egg survives thawing or leads to a pregnancy
Every risk is explained before you decide. Results vary from person to person.
Fertility preservation: your questions
How long can eggs stay frozen?
Frozen eggs remain stable for many years. Storage terms and fees are agreed in writing.
What is the best age to freeze eggs?
Results are best before 35, but freezing can still help later. We check your reserve and give you a realistic picture.
