Vita Altera IVF Center
Egg Freezing Procedure in Cyprus
Egg freezing is a fertility preservation procedure that involves collecting a woman’s current egg cells and storing them using the vitrification method for future family planning. At the Vita Altera IVF Center, the egg freezing process in Cyprus is individually planned based on the person’s age, ovarian reserve, medical history, future plans, and potential medical risks.
What is Egg Freezing?
Egg freezing is the process of extracting mature egg cells from the ovaries and freezing them in a laboratory setting for future use, without prior fertilization.
During the treatment, personalized hormone medications are used to encourage the ovaries to develop multiple eggs within the same menstrual cycle. The developing eggs are then collected through an ultrasound-guided egg retrieval procedure.The collected eggs are evaluated for maturity in the embryology laboratory. Mature eggs suitable for freezing are preserved using vitrification, a rapid freezing technique.No sperm is used during egg freezing, and the eggs are not fertilized. When the individual decides to use these eggs in the future, they are thawed, fertilized with suitable sperm cells—often using the microinjection method—and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus.Does egg freezing completely stop biological time?Frozen eggs retain the biological characteristics corresponding to the age at which they were collected. However, the procedure does not halt the person’s natural aging process, the gradual decline in ovarian reserve, or future general health changes.
Egg Freezing Procedure in Cyprus
The egg freezing procedure in Cyprus involves initial doctor evaluation, ovarian reserve testing, controlled ovarian stimulation, ultrasound monitoring, egg retrieval, and vitrification.
At the Vita Altera IVF Center, before starting treatment, factors such as the individual’s age, menstrual regularity, ovarian reserve, previous surgeries, current medications, and health conditions affecting fertility are assessed.For patients coming from Turkey or other countries, the initial consultation can be conducted online. Existing hormone test results and ultrasound reports can be reviewed before arriving in Cyprus, allowing for the preparation of necessary tests and a tentative treatment plan.The medication start date, check-up days, egg retrieval timing, and stay schedule in Cyprus are personally planned based on how the ovaries respond to treatment.01
Online Preliminary Consultation
Your AMH, hormone results, ultrasound reports, and medical history can be reviewed by our doctors before you arrive in Cyprus.02
Personalized Stimulation Plan
The type and dosage of medication are determined based on age, ovarian reserve, body composition, and previous treatment responses.03
Safe Laboratory Monitoring
Collected eggs are assessed for maturity and stored following safety and identification procedures.Who is Egg Freezing Suitable For?
Egg freezing can be considered for women who wish to delay childbearing or before medical treatments that may affect their fertility potential.
- Women who wish to postpone childbearing to a later age
- Women who have not yet found a suitable partner or suitable parenting conditions
- Patients about to undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Women scheduled for surgery that poses a risk of ovarian damage
- Patients undergoing surgery for ovarian cysts or endometriosis
- Women with a family history of early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency
- Individuals at risk of faster-than-expected decline in ovarian reserve
- Those with genetic or autoimmune diseases that put ovarian function at risk
- Patients who will be using long-term treatments that may affect reproductive potential
- Women who wish to preserve the option of pregnancy with their own eggs in the future
Can everyone with low AMH freeze their eggs?Low AMH does not necessarily mean egg freezing is impossible; however, it may indicate that the number of eggs obtainable could be limited. Age, antral follicle count, menstrual regularity, and previous ovarian responses should be evaluated together.
Planned and Medically Indicated Egg Freezing
Egg freezing can be performed for reasons related to the individual’s future family planning or before a medical condition that threatens fertility.
Planned Egg Freezing
This involves women storing their eggs at an earlier age to use later, due to factors like career, education, relationship status, or personal circumstances.- Aims to preserve future reproductive options
- Does not require sperm or a partner for the procedure
- The decision is based on the individual’s own future plans
- Eggs frozen at a younger age generally have higher potential
- Does not guarantee future pregnancy
Fertility Preservation for Medical Reasons
This is performed before treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, ovarian surgery, or other therapies that may reduce ovarian reserve.- Requires coordination with oncology or relevant specialists
- The time remaining before starting the primary treatment is assessed
- Ovarian stimulation protocols can be adjusted based on the disease
- In some cases, treatment can be initiated without waiting for a menstrual period
- Avoiding unnecessary delays in medical treatment is crucial
Timing is crucial before cancer treatmentIt is important for patients planning chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other treatments that may affect the ovaries to be referred to a fertility specialist as early as possible. The method to be applied is determined based on the type of disease and the start time of the primary treatment.
What is the Best Age for Egg Freezing?
There is no single ideal age for egg freezing that applies to everyone. Generally, eggs frozen at a younger age tend to have a higher potential for future use.
As age advances, ovarian reserve may decline, and the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs can increase. Therefore, the decision to freeze eggs should be based not only on the age at which childbearing is desired but also on the age at which the eggs are frozen.A good ovarian reserve does not necessarily mean egg quality is high. AMH and antral follicle count primarily help predict the ovarian response to medication and the number of eggs that might be obtained.Egg freezing can still be medically evaluated at an older age; however, realistic counseling about the likely number of eggs and future pregnancy chances is essential.Not wanting children today does not mean delaying evaluationIf childbearing plans are postponed for many years, early information about ovarian reserve and age-related fertility changes can facilitate more informed decision-making.
Does Egg Freezing Reduce Ovarian Reserve?
The egg retrieval procedure focuses on the eggs within the follicles that have begun to develop in that particular cycle. The process does not mean that all future eggs are being used at once.
Each menstrual cycle, a group of follicles begins to develop, and most are naturally lost. Ovarian stimulation medications help more of these follicles reach maturity.Egg freezing does not stop the age-related natural decline in reserve. After the procedure, the ovaries continue their biological processes.Does egg freezing delay menopause?No. Freezing eggs does not alter the age of menopause and does not halt the hormonal aging of the ovaries. The frozen eggs simply represent a separate reproductive option for future use.
Which Tests are Performed Before Egg Freezing?
Pre-treatment assessments are conducted to predict the ovaries’ response to stimulation and to ensure the procedure is planned safely.
Reproductive Health Evaluations
- Gynecological examination and ultrasound
- Antral follicle count
- AMH test
- Relevant hormone tests
- Assessment of menstrual regularity
- Review of previous ovarian surgeries
- Evaluation of endometriosis or ovarian cysts
- Review of previous treatment outcomes
General Health Evaluations
- Complete blood count and necessary biochemistry tests
- Infectious disease screenings
- Thyroid function tests
- Blood sugar and metabolic assessments
- Review of current medications
- Assessment of suitability for anesthesia
- Cardiology or internal medicine consultations if needed
- Specialist evaluation based on specific medical conditions
What does the AMH test indicate?AMH is a helpful indicator providing information about the current pool of follicles in the ovaries. It can help estimate the number of eggs that might be obtained during treatment, but it does not, by itself, indicate egg quality or guarantee future pregnancy.
How is the Egg Freezing Procedure in Cyprus Performed?
The egg freezing process consists of sequential medical and laboratory stages, from the initial doctor evaluation to the storage of eggs via vitrification.
1
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
The individual’s medical history, age, menstrual pattern, future plans, ovarian reserve, and health conditions affecting fertility are assessed.2
Preparation of Personalized Treatment Protocol
Medication type and starting dosage are determined based on AMH, ultrasound findings, body composition, and previous ovarian responses, if any.3
Ovarian Stimulation with Medication
Hormonal injections are used to encourage the development of multiple eggs within the same menstrual cycle. It is important to administer the medication at the specified times.4
Monitoring Follicle Development
The ovaries’ response to medication is tracked via ultrasound and necessary blood tests. Medication dosages may be adjusted based on the results.5
Trigger Injection for Egg Maturation
When follicles reach adequate development, a trigger injection is administered to support the final maturation of the eggs. The egg retrieval time is determined based on this injection.6
Egg Retrieval Procedure
Eggs are collected from the follicles using a thin needle guided by ultrasound, usually under sedation or short-term anesthesia.7
Laboratory Evaluation of Eggs
The collected eggs are examined in the embryology laboratory. Not every follicle yields an egg, and not all retrieved eggs may be mature.8
Vitrification of Mature Eggs
Mature eggs suitable for freezing are subjected to vitrification, a rapid freezing method designed to minimize ice crystal formation within the cell.9
Identification and Storage
Frozen eggs are matched with patient information and stored in specialized containers within liquid nitrogen tanks at very low temperatures.10
Sharing the Results
Information regarding the number of eggs collected, the number of mature eggs, and the number of eggs successfully frozen and stored is shared with the patient after the procedure.What is Vitrification?
Vitrification is a modern freezing method that involves rapidly cooling the egg cell to a glass-like state, aiming to reduce the formation of damaging ice crystals within the cell.
Because the egg cell has a high water content and a delicate cellular structure, the freezing process requires significant laboratory expertise. Vitrification can support better post-thaw survival compared to older slow-freezing methods.Before vitrification, eggs are processed through special protective solutions and then stored at very low temperatures. Eggs intended for future use are thawed using controlled laboratory procedures.Does every frozen egg survive the thawing process?No. While modern vitrification techniques provide high post-thaw survival rates, it is not guaranteed that every egg will survive thawing, fertilize, or develop into an embryo.
How Many Eggs Should Be Frozen?
The number of eggs needed for future childbearing is not the same for everyone. The individual’s age, egg quality, desired number of future children, and post-thaw laboratory results all influence this requirement.
Not every collected egg is mature. Not every frozen egg survives thawing, not every surviving egg fertilizes, and not every fertilized egg develops into a transferable embryo.Eggs frozen at a younger age generally have a higher potential to become usable embryos in the future. As age increases, more mature eggs may be required to achieve the same goal.If the target number is not achieved in a single egg retrieval cycle, a second egg freezing cycle may be considered for some individuals whose health and ovarian reserve allow it.Does a specific number of eggs guarantee pregnancy?No. A certain number of eggs does not guarantee future pregnancy or live birth. During counseling, individual probabilities should be explained based on age and the number of mature eggs obtained.
How Long Does the Egg Freezing Procedure Take?
The ovarian stimulation with medication and the completion of the egg retrieval process is typically planned over approximately two weeks, although this can vary depending on the individual’s ovarian response.
Medication use generally lasts about 8–12 days. During this period, several ultrasound scans and, if necessary, blood tests are performed to evaluate follicle development.Egg retrieval is performed at a time determined by the doctor following the trigger injection. After the procedure, the patient is observed briefly and can usually be discharged the same day.While treatment can begin at the start of a menstrual period, different starting protocols may be considered in some medical situations to minimize time loss.How many days should I stay in Cyprus?The required length of stay in Cyprus depends on whether some monitoring can be done in the patient’s home city and on how the ovaries respond to treatment. An estimated travel schedule is shared by the patient coordinator after the initial evaluation.
How are Frozen Eggs Used in the Future?
When an individual wishes to use their frozen eggs, suitability for pregnancy and uterine structure are first assessed. Then, an IVF program is prepared for thawing the eggs and creating embryos.
1
Pre-pregnancy Health Evaluation
The individual’s current age, uterine structure, general health, and ability to safely sustain a pregnancy are evaluated.2
Determining the Sperm Source
The sperm sample to be used for fertilizing the frozen eggs is determined based on the treatment plan and the individual’s circumstances.3
Thawing the Eggs
The eggs designated for use are thawed according to laboratory protocols and assessed for viability.4
Microinjection Procedure
A suitable sperm cell is injected into the mature eggs that survived thawing, usually using the microinjection method.5
Fertilization and Embryo Monitoring
Fertilized eggs that develop into embryos are monitored in the embryology laboratory for several days.6
Embryo Transfer
An embryo showing suitable development is transferred to the prepared uterus of the prospective mother. A pregnancy test and follow-up schedule are then organized.Difference Between Egg Freezing and Embryo Freezing
Both methods aim to preserve future childbearing options, but they differ in the structure of the stored cell and the decision-making control involved.
Egg Freezing
Eggs are stored unfertilized. No sperm is needed during the procedure, and the decision on which sperm source to use for fertilization can be made later.- Unfertilized egg cells are stored
- Does not require sperm or a partner
- Eggs remain under the individual’s control
- They need to be thawed and fertilized in the future
- Not every egg may develop into an embryo
Embryo Freezing
Collected eggs are fertilized with sperm, and the resulting suitable embryos are frozen. The embryo carries the genetic material of the egg and sperm providers.- Fertilized embryos that have begun developing are stored
- Requires a sperm source during the procedure
- Future use of the embryo may depend on mutual consent
- Fertilization and early development information is known beforehand
- The embryo is thawed and evaluated before transfer
Which method is more suitable?The choice between egg or embryo freezing should be based on the individual’s relationship status, sperm source availability, future plans, medical conditions, and preference regarding decision-making on the stored material.
Factors Affecting Egg Freezing Success
The future outcome of an egg freezing procedure is not solely dependent on the freezing technique. Many stages, from the age at which eggs are obtained to embryo transfer, influence the result.
Age at which eggs are frozen
The age at which eggs are collected is one of the most important factors for future embryo development and chromosomal characteristics.Ovarian Reserve
Ovarian reserve can affect the number of eggs obtainable in a treatment cycle and whether additional cycles are needed.Number of Eggs Collected
Freezing a higher number of mature eggs may increase future options; however, it does not guarantee pregnancy.Egg Maturity
Not all collected eggs are mature. The number of mature eggs suitable for freezing is a significant outcome of the treatment.Vitrification Process
The preparation, freezing, and storage of eggs require careful laboratory protocols.Post-thaw Viability
Some frozen eggs may not retain their viability or usability after the thawing process.Sperm Characteristics
When eggs are used in the future, sperm characteristics can affect fertilization and embryo development.Embryo Development
Not all fertilized eggs may reach the stage of a transferable embryo.Uterus and General Health
Even if eggs were frozen at a young age, the uterine structure and general health of the person carrying the pregnancy in the future remain important.Does egg freezing guarantee future pregnancy?No. Egg freezing provides an additional reproductive option that can be used in the future; however, there is no guarantee that every egg will thaw, fertilize, develop into an embryo, or result in pregnancy.
Risks and Limitations of the Egg Freezing Procedure
Egg freezing is a treatment requiring regular medical monitoring. The medications, the egg retrieval procedure, and the laboratory stages have certain risks and limitations.
Side effects of medications
Sensitivity at the injection site, headaches, mood changes, abdominal bloating, and temporary discomfort may occur.Ovarian Hyperstimulation
In some patients, ovaries may respond more intensely than expected to the medication. Appropriate dosage and regular monitoring help mitigate this risk.Egg Retrieval Risks
Mild pain and spotting may occur after the procedure. Serious complications like bleeding, infection, or involvement of surrounding organs are rare.Inability to Obtain Sufficient Eggs
Ovaries may show limited response to treatment, some follicles may not yield eggs, or the retrieved eggs may not be mature.Post-thaw Loss
Not all frozen eggs may survive the thawing process in the future.No Guarantee of Pregnancy
Having frozen eggs does not guarantee that a healthy embryo, pregnancy, or live birth will definitely occur in the future.How Long Can Eggs Be Stored?
Eggs can be stored for extended periods under appropriate laboratory and cryostorage conditions. The biological age of the cell does not progress in the same way as the storage duration after freezing.
Administrative conditions regarding storage duration, renewal of consents, fees, and future decisions on the use or disposal of eggs are carried out in accordance with current regulations and the signed storage agreement.It is important to keep contact information up to date and to follow storage renewal notifications sent by the center.Does long-term storage age the eggs?The biological characteristics of the egg are largely related to its condition at the age it was frozen. Nevertheless, when eggs are used in the future, post-thaw viability, fertilization, and embryo development are assessed separately.
Egg Freezing Costs in Cyprus
Egg freezing costs in Cyprus can vary depending on the ovarian stimulation program applied, the medications used, the scope of monitoring, and the storage duration.
Since each patient’s age, ovarian reserve, and required medication dosage are different, an accurate assessment cannot be made solely based on a standard package price.Main factors influencing the total cost include:- Initial doctor evaluation
- AMH, hormone, and blood tests
- Ultrasound monitoring
- Type and dosage of ovarian stimulation medications
- Trigger injection for egg maturation
- Egg retrieval procedure
- Sedation or anesthesia
- Embryology laboratory evaluation
- Egg vitrification procedure
- Initial storage period
- Annual storage renewal fees
- Additional specialist evaluations if needed
- Need for an additional egg freezing cycle
- Travel and accommodation preferences
What details should be asked when comparing prices?When comparing egg freezing costs, it should be assessed whether medications, anesthesia, the egg retrieval procedure, vitrification, and the initial storage period are included in the stated price. Future thawing, fertilization, and embryo transfer are separate procedures that may be billed separately.
Current treatment scope and pricing information are shared in detail by our patient coordinators after evaluating your existing tests and ovarian reserve.Why Vita Altera IVF Center?
At Vita Altera, egg freezing is not just about collecting and storing eggs; it is approached as a holistic process involving correct timing, personalized ovarian stimulation, safe laboratory monitoring, and planning for future use.
- Personalized fertility preservation planning
- Experienced obstetricians and gynecologists
- Experienced embryology and laboratory team
- Detailed ovarian reserve assessment
- Personalized medication and monitoring program
- Modern egg vitrification methods
- Advanced embryology laboratory
- Chip ID sample matching and security system
- Secure egg identification
- Online preliminary consultation option
- Personal patient coordinator support
- Multilingual patient counseling
- Travel and accommodation planning assistance
- Regular follow-up before and after treatment
- Counseling for the future thawing and usage process
Technology and high egg count are not success guaranteesVitrification and laboratory security systems can support the process. However, future outcomes depend on the age at which eggs were frozen, the number of mature eggs, post-thaw viability, sperm characteristics, embryo development, and the health status during the pregnancy period.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egg Freezing
What is egg freezing?
Egg freezing involves extracting mature egg cells from the ovaries and freezing them using the vitrification method without fertilization, to be stored for future use.
Do you need to be married to freeze eggs?
No sperm is used during egg freezing, and the eggs are stored unfertilized. The individual’s suitability for the procedure is assessed by the center based on their health status and current administrative and legal conditions.
Is sperm needed for egg freezing?
No. Sperm is not used during egg freezing. The eggs are stored unfertilized and are fertilized with a suitable sperm sample when needed in the future.
What is the best age for egg freezing?
There is no single ideal age that applies to everyone. Generally, eggs frozen at a younger age have a higher reproductive potential. The decision should be made considering age, ovarian reserve, and personal future plans.
Can eggs be frozen after the age of 40?
The procedure may be considered for some women with suitable ovarian reserve and general health. However, as age increases, the number and quality of eggs may decline, so realistic counseling about future success chances is essential.
Can egg freezing be done with low AMH?
Low AMH does not mean the procedure cannot be performed; however, the number of eggs obtainable may be limited. Age, antral follicle count, menstrual regularity, and previous treatment response are evaluated together.
Does AMH indicate egg quality?
AMH primarily provides information about ovarian reserve and the potential response to stimulation. Age is a more determining factor for egg quality and chromosomal characteristics.
Is the egg freezing procedure painful?
Injection sensitivity and abdominal bloating may be experienced during medication use. Since egg retrieval is typically performed under sedation or short-term anesthesia, significant pain is not felt during the procedure.
How long does the egg retrieval procedure take?
The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the number of developing follicles. You may need to be at the center longer due to patient preparation, anesthesia, and post-procedure monitoring.
How many days does the egg freezing process take?
Ovarian stimulation with medication generally lasts about 8–12 days. Including monitoring and the egg retrieval, the total program is usually completed within approximately two weeks.
How many eggs are collected in one cycle?
The number of eggs varies based on age, ovarian reserve, response to medication, and ultrasound findings. Not every follicle yields an egg, and not every egg is mature.
How many eggs are enough to freeze?
There is no fixed number considered sufficient for everyone. Personalized counseling is provided considering age, desired number of future children, and the number of mature eggs obtained.
Can multiple egg freezing procedures be performed?
If the target number of mature eggs is not achieved in the first cycle, an additional egg freezing cycle may be planned if the individual’s health allows.
Does egg freezing deplete ovarian reserve?
The procedure focuses on the eggs within the follicles that began developing in that menstrual cycle. It does not mean that all future eggs are used at once.
Does egg freezing cause early menopause?
Egg freezing is not thought to cause early menopause. However, the individual’s current ovarian reserve and risk of early menopause should be evaluated before treatment.
How long can frozen eggs be stored?
Eggs can be stored for long periods under suitable cryostorage conditions. Permitted storage duration, consent renewal procedures, and administrative conditions are managed according to current regulations and the storage agreement.
Do frozen eggs age?
The fundamental biological characteristics of the egg are related to its condition at the age it was frozen. Its biological age does not progress within the body during storage.
Are all frozen eggs thawed?
While modern vitrification supports post-thaw viability, it is not guaranteed that every egg will survive or be usable.
Does every thawed egg fertilize?
No. Not every egg that survives thawing will fertilize normally, and not every fertilized egg will develop into a transferable embryo.
How are frozen eggs fertilized?
After thawing, eggs are assessed for viability and maturity. Suitable eggs are usually subjected to microinjection, where a single selected sperm cell is injected.
Does egg freezing guarantee future pregnancy?
No. The procedure provides an additional reproductive option for the future. Thawing, fertilization, embryo development, and implantation in the uterus are separate stages.
Are babies born from frozen eggs healthy?
Current scientific data suggests that neonatal outcomes from pregnancies achieved with frozen eggs are generally similar to those from fresh eggs. Individual genetic and pregnancy risks should be assessed separately.
Can I return to work after egg retrieval?
Many patients can return to their daily activities the day after the procedure. Longer rest may be needed depending on anesthesia, pain, bloating, or personal health status.
When does menstruation occur after egg retrieval?
The timing of menstruation may vary depending on the treatment protocol used and the hormonal response. In case of unexpected delay, heavy bleeding, or severe pain, the center should be contacted.
Can the initial consultation be done online?
Yes. Information regarding AMH, hormone results, ultrasound reports, past surgeries, and current medications can be shared beforehand. After the initial evaluation, necessary tests and a tentative treatment plan can be prepared.
Which documents should be sent before coming to Cyprus?
Sharing AMH and hormone results, recent ultrasound evaluation, reports on ovarian surgeries, a list of current medications, and previous egg retrieval or IVF reports facilitates the evaluation process.
How can I learn about egg freezing costs in Cyprus?
Costs can vary based on medication dosage, ultrasound monitoring, egg retrieval, anesthesia, vitrification, and storage duration. After reviewing your existing tests, personalized treatment scope and pricing information will be shared.
