Benefits

What are the benefits of using a frozen egg bank?

The use of a frozen egg bank offers numerous advantages that have transformed the available fertility options. Among the main benefits is the flexibility in family planning, allowing women to preserve high-quality eggs during their period of increased fertility for use when they are ready for motherhood. This approach represents a significant step forward for Freeze and share reproductive options.

For cancer patients, it represents a crucial opportunity to preserve fertility before undergoing treatments that could compromise their reproductive capacity, complementing other options such as sperm freezing in the case of male patients. In addition, it provides immediate access to donated eggs without the need to synchronize cycles with donors, considerably reducing waiting times and facilitating processes such as IVF with donor eggs.

What success rates do frozen eggs offer?

Success rates with frozen eggs have improved significantly over the past decade thanks to advances in vitrification techniques. Currently, studies show that the survival rate after thawing ranges from 90% to 97% in clinics with optimized protocols.

According to recent data, the chance of pregnancy with vitrified donor eggs, it is approximately 50-60%, just slightly lower than the rate of 57-60% of cycles with fresh eggs. Factors such as the donor's age at the time of vitrification, the quality of the laboratory and the experience of the medical team influence these results considerably.

Why choose vitrified eggs over fresh eggs?

The choice between vitrified and fresh eggs presents important considerations that influence the therapeutic decision. La immediate availability constitutes a fundamental advantage; vitrified eggs are accessible without waiting time, while fresh cycles require synchronization with the donor, often delaying the start of treatment. This feature perfectly complements the protocols of FIV-ICSI which can be started immediately.

La simplified logistics represents another significant benefit, eliminating the need to meticulously coordinate donor and recipient cycles, an aspect that traditionally complicated procedures with fresh eggs. Banks also offer Largest selection of genetic and phenotypic profiles, allowing access to a diverse catalog of donors that is better adapted to the characteristics desired by future parents, facilitating processes such as egg donation.

El full screening guarantees additional safety, since vitrified eggs come from donors previously evaluated in all relevant medical aspects, including complete serological results. La temporary flexibility provides the ability to schedule treatment according to the patient's medical and personal convenience, allowing better integration with other complementary procedures such as endometrial preparation for transfer.

Risks

What risks are there in the egg freezing process?

The process of freezing eggs, while generally safe, is not exempt from certain risks and considerations. During the ovarian stimulation phase, some women may experience the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a reaction to fertility drugs that in rare cases can be serious, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and fluid accumulation.

The egg retrieval procedure involves minimal but existing risks, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby structures such as the intestine, bladder, or blood vessels. Most women experience abdominal bloating, cramps, and discomfort for about a week after the procedure.

Are there restrictions on the use of frozen eggs?

Despite advances in vitrification techniques, certain important limitations to consider:

• Freezing eggs doesn't guarantee a successful pregnancy; it's rather a preservation option that increases future possibilities
• Not all eggs survive the thawing process, although current rates are high (90-97%)
• La egg quality depends primarily on the woman's age at the time of frostbite
• Los significant costs include not only the initial procedure but also the annual storage and subsequent treatments
• It exists variability between clinics in terms of success rates and the protocols used
• Long-term studies on the development of children born from vitrified eggs are still limited

What are the ethical and legal considerations?

The field of egg preservation proposes important ethical and legal issues which vary considerably depending on the region and sociocultural context. In Mexico, the regulation of the reproductive technology sector continues to evolve, presenting particular challenges for patients and specialists.

Las regulations on donation they differ significantly between jurisdictions, especially in fundamental aspects such as the anonymity of donors, the economic compensation allowed and the legal rights of children born using these techniques. This regulatory framework has a direct impact on programs such as donate eggs and its practical implementation.

Complexes arise Dilemmas about disposition of unused eggs, particularly in scenarios not initially contemplated, such as the death of the owner or separations of a couple. These cases require specific legal considerations that are not always clearly defined in current legislation. Simultaneously, in diverse religious and cultural contexts, they emerge. moral concerns on the manipulation of reproductive cells, especially relevant in programs of transgender fertility who may face additional barriers.

The economic dimension of egg banks generates ethical debates about potential Overmarketing and the risk of exploitation of young women as donors, especially in vulnerable socio-economic contexts. Finally, the equitable access These technologies represent a persistent challenge; the associated high costs and limited insurance coverage create significant disparities in access to options such as preservation of fertility, favoring population segments with greater economic resources.

‍

Procedure

How are egg donors selected and evaluated?

Las egg donors go through a rigorous selection and evaluation process before being accepted into a donation program. The criteria generally include an optimal age range between 18 and 35 years, with a preference for younger donors (18-26 years old) due to the better oocyte quality.

The evaluation process is comprehensive and multidimensional. It starts with a full medical evaluation which includes a detailed review of personal and family medical history to rule out inherited conditions. Subsequently, a psychological evaluation essential to determine the emotional stability and motivations of the donor. The centers also implement genetic analysis advanced to detect if the candidate is a carrier of hereditary diseases that could be transmitted.

Equally important are the serological tests that rule out infectious and sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, the gynecological evaluation includes specialized ultrasound to determine the ovarian reserve and detect possible anomalies. Las hormonal tests complete the process, evaluating fertility and ovarian function to predict the response to stimulation.

Accepted donors generally maintain a healthy body mass index and do not have risky habits such as smoking or drug use, factors that could affect oocyte quality.

How does the egg stimulation and extraction process work?

The process of ovarian stimulation and extraction is essential in obtaining eggs for freezing. Initially, the woman receives hormonal stimulation using injectable medications (follicle-stimulating hormones) for 8-12 days to promote the development of multiple follicles simultaneously, similar to the protocol used in ovulation induction but with more intensive doses.

La process monitoring is rigorous and detailed, including transvaginal ultrasound and regular blood tests to evaluate follicular growth and hormone levels, allowing personalized adjustments to treatment according to the individual response. When the follicles reach their optimal size, an injection of the hormone hCG is given to trigger the final maturation of the eggs, preparing them for extraction.

El Extraction procedure is performed precisely 34-36 hours after the maturation injection, under sedation for greater comfort. The specialist uses an ultrasound guided needle to carefully aspirate eggs from the follicles through the vagina, a technique similar to that used in Conventional IVF but specifically intended for preservation.

La post-procedure recovery is generally fast; most women can resume normal activities the next day, although they may experience temporary mild discomfort such as bloating or abdominal tenderness. The number of eggs obtained varies depending on the individual response, but generally ranges from 10-15 eggs per cycle, which will later be processed for egg freezing.

How are eggs preserved and stored?

La vitrification and storage egg retrieval represents a critical phase that largely determines future success:

1. Preparation for vitrification: Mature eggs undergo a process of partial dehydration and exposure to cryoprotective solutions that prevent the formation of ice crystals.
2. Ultra-fast vitrification: The eggs are immersed in liquid nitrogen at -196°C in a matter of seconds, transforming them into a glass-like state without the formation of crystalline ice.
3. Storage in tanks: Vitrified eggs are stored in special devices (straws or cryotubes) inside liquid nitrogen tanks with constant monitoring systems.
4. Quality Control: Strict protocols are in place to ensure stable temperatures and prevent fluctuations that could damage eggs.
5. Long-term maintenance: Current studies suggest that eggs can remain viable for decades under these storage conditions.

Storage facilities have energy backup systems and emergency protocols to ensure the continued safety of preserved eggs.

Costs

How much does it cost to freeze and store eggs in Mexico?

The cost of freezing and storing eggs in Mexico varies considerably depending on the clinic, location and services included. In general, the entire process of freezing of own eggs can range from $10,000 to $20,000 USD per cycle, including medications, doctor visits and the extraction procedure.

In addition, the annual storage of frozen eggs represents a recurring expense that generally ranges from $400 to $800 USD per year. Some clinics offer long-term (5-10 years) storage packages at reduced rates.

For those looking to use donor eggs, the costs may be different, including donor compensation and additional procedures required for fertilization and transfer.

What is included in the cost of treatment?

The cost of egg freezing treatment usually includes several components:

• Initial Assessment: Medical appointments, hormone tests and ultrasound
• Medication for ovarian stimulation: One of the most expensive components of the process
• Cycle monitoring: Serial ultrasound and hormone analysis
• Extraction procedure: Includes anaesthesia, use of the operating room and medical staff
• Laboratory processing: Egg selection, preparation and vitrification
• First year of storage: Usually included in the initial package

Some additional costs that may not be included:

• Specialized diagnostic tests such as genetic evaluations
• Storage extension beyond the first year
• Additional medications that may be required depending on the individual answer
• Future Procedures such as thawing, fertilization and embryo transfer

Is there insurance coverage or financing available?

Financial coverage options for egg freezing procedures in Mexico are limited, but several alternatives have been developed to facilitate access to these treatments. Los private health insurance generally have restrictions; most policies in Mexico do not fully cover fertility treatments, although some premium insurers have started offering partial coverage for certain specific procedures after individualized evaluation.

Most patients access clinical funding plans offered directly by specialized centers. Many Mexican fertility clinics have implemented installment payment systems or agreements with financial institutions to offer credit cards with specific preferential rates for assisted reproduction treatments, providing alternatives such as freezing of embryos or egg preservation.

Los shared donation programs represent an innovative option; some women can access treatments at significantly reduced costs if they agree to donate part of their eggs for other patients, a model similar to the sharing eggs but focused specifically on vitrification. Additionally, several international companies with a presence in Mexico have begun to integrate subsidies for fertility preservation into their corporate benefit packages for female employees.

For specific cases, especially related to fertility preservation and pre-cancer treatment, there are non-profit organizations that provide partial financial support. It is recommended to research particular options directly with the chosen fertility center, considering that the programs available vary significantly between institutions.

Eligibility

Who are ideal candidates to freeze their eggs?

Las ideal candidates for egg freezing they usually share certain characteristics that maximize the chances of future success. La Age is the most determining factor, with women under 35 years of age obtaining the best results, with optimal results between the ages of 25 and 30 when oocyte quality is at its peak.

Women with good ovarian reserve, determined by hormonal analysis (AMH) and ultrasound (follicular counting), respond better to ovarian stimulation and produce more viable eggs. Those with family history of premature ovarian failure O early menopause may especially benefit from this technique as a preventive measure.

Are there any contraindications for egg freezing?

Although egg freezing is generally safe, there are certain contraindications important ones that specialists carefully evaluate. La old age constitutes one of the main limiting factors; women over 40 have significantly reduced success rates due to the natural decline in oocyte quality. La low ovarian reserve, regardless of chronological age, can significantly limit the number of recoverable eggs, reducing the effectiveness of the procedure.

Some medical conditions specific ones such as uncontrolled bleeding disorders represent contraindications due to the risk during extraction. Los hormone-dependent tumors deserve special attention, as they could potentially be aggravated by the ovarian stimulation necessary for the procedure. Certain anatomical anomalies that make it difficult to access the ovaries can technically complicate extraction. Las severe allergies to the drugs used in the process also constitute a relevant contraindication.

Each case must be evaluated individually, and some relative contraindications may be addressed with modified stimulation protocols or additional precautions during the procedure. Assisted reproduction specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the suitability of each patient.

What is the optimal age for freezing eggs?

La optimal age for freezing eggs represents a balance between several factors:

• Maximum biological efficacy: Between 25 and 30 years old, when oocyte quality is optimal and more viable eggs can be obtained per cycle
• Practical utility: Before age 35, as oocyte quality begins to decline significantly after this age
• Realistic Considerations: Many women don't consider this option until they approach age 35

Scientific studies indicate that:

• At age 30, approximately 6-10 vitrified eggs offer a 60-80% chance of at least one live birth
• At 35, 10-15 eggs would be needed to obtain similar odds
• At age 40, even with 20+ eggs, the odds are no more than 30-40%

The general medical recommendation is to freeze eggs before age 35 whenever possible, ideally between the ages of 28-32 to optimize results.

Utilization

How are frozen eggs used to achieve pregnancy?

When a woman decides to use her frozen eggs to try to achieve a pregnancy, a process is initiated that involves several precise and specialized technical steps. The first fundamental step is the defrosting or devitrification, where eggs are carefully extracted from cryogenic storage and undergo a controlled heating and rehydration process that reverses the vitrification process. This phase is extremely delicate and requires specialized technical expertise to maximize the oocyte survival rate.

Subsequently, the fertilization using ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection); this specific technique is almost invariably used because the zona pellucida (outer layer) of the egg hardens during the freeze-thaw process, making it difficult for the sperm to penetrate naturally. La FIV-ICSI consists of selecting and directly injecting a sperm cell into each egg under microscopic visualization.

Fertilized eggs enter the phase of embryo culture, developing under controlled laboratory conditions for 3-5 days as they progress to the blastocyst stage. During this period, embryologists perform the embryonic selection, meticulously evaluating the morphological quality and chronological development of each embryo to identify those most viable for transfer or freezing of embryos additional.

In parallel, the recipient receives hormonal treatment for endometrial preparation, optimizing the uterine lining for implantation. This process is similar to that used in the protocols of frozen embryo transfer. When the endometrium reaches the thickness and optimal characteristics, we proceed to embryo transfer, placing the selected embryo in the uterus through a brief, outpatient procedure. Finally, it provides luteal phase support by administering progesterone and other hormones as needed, to promote the implantation and maintenance of the initial pregnancy.

What success rates can you expect with vitrified eggs?

Las success rates The number of cases with vitrified eggs depends on several factors:

• La Age of the woman at the time of frostbite is the most determining factor: eggs frozen at age 30 are approximately twice as likely to result in a live birth as those frozen at age 40.
• Recent data indicate that the survival rates when defrosting, they range from 90-97% in experienced laboratories.
• La chance of pregnancy For transfer with donated vitrified eggs, it is between 50-60%, while with vitrified own eggs it varies significantly according to age: approximately 40-50% for women who froze before the age of 35, and 20-30% for those who froze after 38 years.
• Studies indicate that approximately 8-10 vitrified eggs before the age of 35 to have a 65-70% chance of at least one live birth.

How long can eggs stay frozen?

La potential duration of the storage of frozen eggs is one of the most notable aspects of this technology:

• From the point of view technical and biological, vitrified eggs could remain viable indefinitely as long as they are kept under optimal storage conditions at -196°C. In this state, biological activity and cell deterioration stop completely.
• The longest documented case of successful storage has been approximately 14 years old, resulting in a healthy birth, although most eggs are used within the first 5-7 years after vitrification.
• Las legal regulations in Mexico and other countries they may establish temporary limits for storage, generally between 10-20 years, with the possibility of extensions in specific cases.
• Considerations Practical and medical suggest that women should use their vitrified eggs before the age of 50, due to the greater obstetric risks associated with pregnancy at an older age.
• Los financial aspects of long-term storage are also relevant, since annual costs can accumulate significantly over time.

References

1. Spanish Fertility Society. (2020). National Activity Register 2020 - SEF Record. Spanish Fertility Society. Trusted Source.
2. Noyes, N., Knopman, J.M., Melzer, K., Fino, M.E., Friedman, B., & Westphal, L.M. (2011). Oocyte cryopreservation as a fertility preservation measure for cancer patients. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 23 (3), 323-333. Trusted Source.
3. American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2021). Mature oocyte cryopreservation: A guideline. Fertility and Sterility, 99 (1), 37-43. Trusted Source

‍