As modern medicine continues to advance and women are empowered to take control of their reproductive health, the topic of egg freezing has become increasingly relevant. As more and more individuals choose to delay starting a family for various reasons such as career goals or lack of a suitable partner, egg freezing is now seen as a viable option.
However, with this technique still being relatively new in India and not widely covered by insurance companies, there remains a common question: what is the cost of egg freezing in Bangalore & major metros?
In this blog post, we will explore the various factors that contribute to egg-freezing costs in India and provide an overview of the average expenses associated with this procedure. By understanding these factors, we hope to give readers a better understanding of what they should expect when considering opting for egg-freezing treatment.
So let’s dive into the details and gain some valuable insights on the monetary aspect of preserving fertility through egg freezing.
Egg Freezing - What is it and who is the candidate?
Egg freezing, also known as mature oocyte cryopreservation, is a process by which a woman’s eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored. The aim of this procedure is to preserve reproductive potential in women of reproductive age. This is an option for women who wish to delay childbearing for various reasons, like career pursuits or finding the right partner.
The process involves several steps. Initially, hormone injections are administered to stimulate the ovaries and increase egg production. Once matured, these eggs are then harvested and frozen for future use.
Regarding the ideal candidate for egg freezing, it typically suits women who are not ready to conceive but wish to have a chance of a biological child in the future. Women undergoing certain treatments such as chemotherapy which can affect fertility may also opt for egg freezing. However, it is important to note that success rates vary and tend to decrease with age.
While women in their 20s and early 30s usually have higher success rates, the chances of a successful pregnancy decrease significantly for women in their late 30s and 40s. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about the pros and cons based on your individual circumstances before opting for egg freezing.
Also Read: Benefits of Egg Freezing
Financial Costs of Egg Freezing in Major Indian Cities
Egg freezing comes with a significant financial consideration. The cost varies across different cities in India and includes expenses for medications, surgical procedures, consultations, and storage.
In Bangalore, the average cost of egg freezing can range between INR 1.5 lakhs to 2 lakhs. This includes hormone injections, ultrasound monitoring, egg retrieval, and freezing procedure. The storage fee can vary from INR 15,000 to 20,000 per year.
Delhi presents a similar cost structure. The egg freezing procedure can range anywhere from INR 1 lakh to 1.5 lakhs. The annual storage cost is approximately INR 20,000.
In Mumbai, the cost for the egg freezing process is marginally higher, ranging between INR 2 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs, with an annual storage fee of around INR 15,000 to 25,000.
While these prices are indicative, it’s crucial to note that the total expense can increase based on individual treatment plans and the number of cycles required.
When it comes to insurance coverage, the landscape is quite nascent in India. Some insurance providers may consider covering the costs associated with egg freezing under their health insurance policies-but these are exceptions rather than the norm. It’s always advisable to discuss potential coverage options with your insurance provider beforehand to understand what’s included and what’s not in the policy.
Factors Determining the Total Cost of Egg Freezing
The overall cost of the egg freezing procedure is influenced by several key factors:
- Number of Egg Retrieval Cycles: Typically, more than one egg retrieval cycle is necessary to collect a sufficient number of eggs. Each additional cycle increases the total cost as it involves repeated hormonal stimulation, monitoring, and egg retrieval procedures.
- Type of Stimulation Protocol: The costs can also vary based on the type of stimulation protocol used. Some women may require a more aggressive or prolonged stimulation protocol which involves higher doses of medications, consequently escalating the total cost.
- Duration of Egg Storage: The length of time for which the eggs are stored is another crucial determinant of the final billing. The longer the eggs are stored, the higher the storage fees. Storage costs are typically billed annually and can add a substantial amount to the total expense over time.
- Long-term Cost of Having a Baby Post Thaw: Factoring in the cost of utilising the frozen eggs for future pregnancy is essential. After thawing, In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) procedures are typically required to facilitate pregnancy. The costs for these procedures can vary considerably depending on the clinic and geographical location.
It’s worth noting that not all thawed eggs lead to a successful pregnancy – the success rates are influenced by several factors, including the woman’s age at the time of freezing, the quality of the eggs, and the specific techniques used during thawing and fertilisation. It’s prudent to discuss the potential costs and success rates of these procedures with your healthcare provider to gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire financial commitment involved in egg freezing.
Emotional and lifestyle considerations
Beyond the financial dimensions of egg freezing, it’s equally crucial to explore the emotional and lifestyle aspects of this path. For some individuals, the decision to freeze eggs may bring about feelings of regret or stress.
The process may elicit regret over not having pursued parenthood earlier, or stress due to the pressure of making a significant decision about one’s future fertility. It’s critical to acknowledge and address these feelings, perhaps with the assistance of a professional counsellor or therapist experienced in fertility issues.
Egg freezing can also have implications for current or future relationships. For those in a relationship, the decision may necessitate in-depth discussions about the couple’s shared fertility plans and potential concerns about delayed parenthood. For those who are single, the process might introduce additional stressors, such as the worry about potential partners’ reactions to their choice to freeze eggs.
Commitment to future fertility plans should also be assessed carefully. Egg freezing is not a guarantee of future pregnancy; it’s a choice that increases the chances of having a biological child in the future. It’s important to clarify the motivations for pursuing egg freezing and to ensure a realistic understanding of the process and its potential outcomes.
If the desire to have a child in the future remains strong, egg freezing can be a proactive step, providing peace of mind and preserving the possibility of parenthood.
In conclusion, egg freezing is a personal and momentous decision that can have profound impacts on your future. It is a decision that should be thoroughly considered, discussing the physical, emotional, and relational aspects with a professional can be immensely beneficial.
If you’re intrigued or have more questions about egg freezing, don’t hesitate to contact our Shilpa GB fertility clinic or any reputed & qualified fertility centre. It’s your future, and being informed is the first step to take control of it.