By Dr. Kajal Singh, Associate Professor, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital
Egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) is an exciting option for women wanting to preserve their fertility. Over the past 10 years, egg freezing—with women reclaiming control of their reproductive clock—has skyrocketed worldwide.
According to research from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG), the number of egg-freezing cycles in the UK increased from 363 in 2010 to over 4,000 in 2020. In the US, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) estimates that the number of egg-freezing cycles performed annually exceeds 10,000.
In India, we are also witnessing an increasing demand for egg freezing, with a predicted 15% CAGR growth rate between 2020 and 2025, driven by greater awareness and advances in medicine.
Why Millennials Are Driving the Trend
For Indian millennials, both social and medical reasons can influence the decision to freeze eggs. Women may delay marriage or motherhood for career or financial reasons, or because a suitable partner is unavailable. Medical reasons may include cancer, endometriosis, or early ovarian failure. While medical needs are significant, much of the public interest is currently focused on social motivations.
The Benefits of Egg Freezing
- Preserves reproductive potential
- Provides flexibility in family planning
- Relieves social pressure to rush into marriage or motherhood
The Limitations to Keep in Mind
Egg freezing is not without its limitations. Success rates vary, and there is no guarantee that pregnancy will occur with thawed eggs. Age is critical—egg quality and quantity decline over time, so the medically optimal age to freeze eggs is often earlier than many women might prefer.
Costs can also be significant. In India, egg-freezing expenses range from ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹3 lakhs per cycle, with additional long-term storage fees to consider. Emotional stress, anxiety, or regret may also arise, along with potential medical side effects from fertility drugs, procedures, and egg retrieval.
An Informed Choice for the Future
Egg freezing is becoming increasingly popular in India, but experts emphasize the importance of informed decision-making. While the procedure can offer flexibility and peace of mind, it is not a guarantee. Fertility specialists encourage patients to carefully consider both the advantages and limitations before proceeding.
Egg freezing may not stop the biological clock, but for many Indian millennials, it has become a powerful option for taking control of their reproductive future.