Preparing for egg freezing

Advancements in reproductive technology have provided people with more options to take control of their fertility journey. Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is one such option that empowers individuals to preserve their fertility for future family planning.

If you're considering freezing your eggs, you might be wondering what you can do to put yourself in the best possible position for beginning a treatment cycle. In this article, we explore how to prepare for egg freezing, looking at lifestyle changes you can make and practical steps you can take.

The egg freezing process

Before delving into the preparations, it's helpful to have a clear understanding of how to freeze your eggs and what an egg freezing cycle entails. Egg freezing involves collecting your eggs so they can then be frozen and stored for potential future use.

The process begins with ovarian stimulation, where fertility medications are used to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then retrieved during a minimally invasive, short procedure called an egg retrieval or egg collection. Once retrieved, the eggs are carefully frozen using a process called vitrification, which preserves them at sub-zero temperatures until you want to use them.

What to do before egg freezing

In general, there is no essential preparation required before you start your egg freezing procedure. However, taking proactive steps to optimise your physical and emotional well-being can help put you in the best position for undergoing treatment.

Plan your schedule

An egg freezing cycle typically takes between 10 and 14 days from when you start your stimulation medications through to egg retrieval. You will also require some fertility tests and appointments before your cycle begins.

It can help give you a better sense of control and lessen stress if you have a rough plan of your treatment dates, especially if you can reduce other commitments around the time such as social get-togethers and work meetings. That being said, you won’t always have much prior notice of when monitoring appointments or your egg collection will be as these depend on how your ovaries respond to stimulation.

At Apricity, we make your egg freezing experience as straightforward as possible through at-home and online care where possible. When you do need to attend your clinic in person, your personal Apricity advisor will be there to coordinate with your clinic and consultant, schedule your appointments, and provide you with all the details you need.

Create a support network

Going through the egg freezing process can be emotionally challenging. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family members, or a support group who can offer encouragement and understanding throughout the journey can help you stay positive as you go through treatment.

Look after your mental health

Managing stress and anxiety is essential for overall well-being during the egg freezing process. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises into your daily routine. You’ll also get support from Apricity via our mobile app, and you’ll have access to your own fertility advisor 7 days a week through extended hours.

What to eat during egg freezing

Nutrition helps optimise fertility and overall health. While there's no specific diet tailored for egg freezing, adopting a Mediterranean diet can have a positive impact on fertility. Focus on a balanced, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Can you exercise during egg freezing?

Maintaining a regular exercise routine is generally encouraged during egg freezing, as it can help manage stress, improve mood, and promote overall health. However, it's essential to listen to your body and avoid strenuous activities that may put undue stress on your ovaries during the ovarian stimulation phase. It’s best to avoid high-impact exercise during ovarian stimulation and in the days after egg collection. If you have any concerns, check with your Apricity clinical team and they’ll be able to give you tailored exercise advice during your egg freezing cycle. 

Can you drink during egg freezing?

While the odd alcoholic drink is generally considered safe, it's advisable to limit alcohol intake prior to and during egg freezing, especially leading up to the egg retrieval procedure. Alcohol can affect hormone levels and may impact the quality of eggs produced during ovarian stimulation and any subsequent embryos created.

What to avoid during egg freezing

While it's a good idea to prioritise healthy habits and focus on your mental wellbeing, there are also certain lifestyle factors to consider avoiding when looking at how to prepare for egg freezing:

Limit caffeine consumption

Although caffeine is considered fine to consume during the egg freezing process, you may want to be mindful of your intake and consider switching to decaffeinated tea and coffee.

Reduce sugary drinks

This forms part of a healthy diet anyway, however, there have been studies that suggest that sugary drinks, and in particular, sodas, can impact the number of eggs retrieved and their quality.

Stop smoking

Smoking has been linked to decreased fertility and can negatively affect egg numbers and egg quality. If you smoke, consider quitting or seeking support to help you quit before starting the egg freezing process.

Decrease exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)

EDCs can be found in many places including the natural environment, foods, and personal care products. These substances can interfere with the normal function of your body’s endocrine system and there is some evidence to suggest that they can have an adverse effect on fertility outcomes.

When preparing for egg freezing, it may be beneficial to avoid using or limit the use of certain products that contain EDCs including:

• Nail polish

• Perfumes

• Fragranced cosmetics

• Cleaning products

• Deodorants

How to prepare for egg freezing with Apricity

Apricity has a wealth of experience in supporting people through egg freezing cycles and we understand the physical, emotional, and logistical challenges that can arise along the way. That's why we are committed to making the process as hassle-free as possible with our at-home care model. It starts with a free online consultation with an Apricity Fertility Advisor. Book your call today to find out more about our egg freezing packages and ask any questions that you may have.

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634384/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4013452/

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24959808/

• https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(17)31911-8/fulltext

• https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/smoking-and-infertility/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10100123/