Egg Freezing FAQs

How long does egg freezing take?

The whole process from starting medications to collection of eggs is usually two weeks. 

Do I need to start treatment on Day 1 of my period?

No — stimulation do not always have to begin with a period. While many treatment protocols traditionally start early in the menstrual cycle, modern understanding of ovarian physiology shows that the ovaries do not develop follicles in a single, predictable wave each month.

Instead, research demonstrates the multiple follicular wave theory, where:

• Follicles are recruited and begin to grow in more than one wave during a cycle

• Growth can occur in the early, mid- or late-follicular phase — even after ovulation

• A second or sometimes third cohort of follicles may be active later in the cycle

• These waves can be harnessed for stimulation without waiting for a period to begin

This means that, depending on your hormone levels and ultrasound findings, treatment can often start at various points in the cycle, rather than being restricted to Day 1.

Why this matters:

• Allows more flexibility in cycle planning

• Reduces delay between treatment cycles

• Supports urgent or time-sensitive fertility care (e.g. fertility preservation)

• Expands options for patients with irregular periods or delayed bleeding

Your specialist will determine the safest and most effective start time based on:

• Ultrasound appearance of the ovaries

• Follicle size and number

• Hormone results (E2, LH, progesterone)

• Your planned treatment type (IVF stimulation, or random start protocol)

In many cases, you do not need to wait for a period - the ovaries simply need to be in the right hormonal state to begin stimulation.

Are there risks involved with egg freezing?

Egg freezing is generally safe and widely used, but there are some risks:

Medical considerations

• Hormone stimulation may cause bloating, mood changes, headaches or discomfort

• There is a small risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), where the ovaries become overly stimulated

• As with any procedure performed under anaesthetic, egg collection carries small risks of bleeding, infection or reaction to medications

These risks are carefully monitored and minimised with modern protocols.

Emotional considerations

• The process can be physically and emotionally demanding

• Some people feel relief and empowerment; others experience anxiety or grief about their fertility situation

You will be supported by the medical team, and counselling is available if you wish.

How long can eggs be stored?

In Victoria, legislation generally allows storage of eggs and embryos for up to 10 years initially.

• If you wish to store them for longer, an application for extension can be made under specific circumstances

• Dr Mackenzie-Proctor can discuss the current legal framework and assist with any necessary paperwork

Is egg freezing covered by insurance or Medicare?

Funding depends on the reason for egg freezing and your individual circumstances.

• Some components may attract Medicare rebates, particularly when there is a medical indication (for example prior to chemotherapy, severe endometriosis)

• Private health insurance may contribute to hospital or anaesthetic costs, depending on your policy

• Elective (“social”) egg freezing is less likely to be fully subsidised, though some rebates may still apply

You’ll receive a transparent cost estimate and guidance on possible rebates before starting.

What are the chances my eggs will survive freezing and thawing?

With modern vitrification techniques:

• Around 90–95% of eggs survive the thawing process when frozen appropriately

• Survival and overall success depend on:

• Age at time of freezing

• Egg quality

• Number of eggs frozen

• Laboratory techniques

Younger eggs generally have higher survival and better potential.

What are the chances of pregnancy using my frozen eggs later?

Once you’re ready to use your frozen eggs:

1. Eggs are thawed

2. Fertilised in the lab (usually with ICSI)

3. Resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus

Success varies depending on:

• Age at the time of freezing

• Number of mature eggs stored

• Sperm quality

• Uterine and general health

As a broad guide, women freezing eggs in their 20s to early 30s may see per-transfer pregnancy rates in the order of 40–50%, but this can be lower with advancing age or fewer eggs. Multiple cycles or transfers may be needed to achieve a live birth.

Link to egg calculator - https://www.omnicalculator.com/health/egg-freezing

What are the costs of egg freezing?

Egg freezing costs generally include:

• Specialist consultations and investigations

• Hormone medications and monitoring

• Day surgery fees for egg collection

• Laboratory fees for freezing

• Ongoing annual storage fees

A tailored cost outline will be provided, including any potential Medicare rebates or health fund contributions.

Where are my eggs stored?

Eggs are stored in the laboratory using liquid nitrogen tanks with:

• Continuous monitoring of temperature and tank conditions

• Back-up systems and strict safety protocols

• Regular auditing and quality control

This environment is designed to keep eggs in optimal condition for future use.

Will freezing my eggs affect my natural fertility?

No. The eggs retrieved in a stimulation cycle are eggs you would otherwise have lost that month.

Egg freezing:

• Does not “use up” your future reserve

• Does not reduce your chance of conceiving naturally later

It simply preserves some of your current eggs for possible future treatment.