There are aspects of life that, while fundamental, often don’t get the attention they deserve. One of them is fertility. In school, we are taught about the menstrual cycle, reproductive anatomy, and the basics of reproduction. However, very little is said about how fertility changes over time or how certain factors can influence our ability to conceive. This gap in education has led many people to face the reality of losing their fertility the moment they feel ready to start a family.
This lack of information is not just an individual problem; it is a matter of public health. Many learn about fertility complications when the options for conceiving naturally are limited.
That’s why fertility preservation is an option that should be considered ahead of time. It’s not just about maintaining the ability to have children, but about taking control of your reproductive future and making sure that when the time comes that is right for you, you have options.
Fertility Preservation Options for Women
- Egg freezing
Egg freezing is one of the most well-known and effective methods of preserving fertility in women. This process involves ovarian stimulation to obtain multiple mature eggs, which are then retrieved and frozen for future use.
This method is ideal for women who want to delay motherhood for personal or professional reasons, or for those who must undergo medical treatments that may affect their fertility, such as chemotherapy.
- Embryo freezing
Similar to egg freezing, embryo freezing involves fertilizing eggs before freezing them. This method is an option for couples who are ready to fertilize their eggs and want to secure the possibility of a future pregnancy.
The main difference with egg freezing is that here there is already a union between the egg and the sperm, forming an embryo that will be implanted in the uterus later.
- Ovarian tissue preservation
This procedure is less common, but it is an option for women who cannot undergo egg or embryo freezing, such as girls or young women who must receive aggressive cancer treatments.
It involves removing and freezing a portion of ovarian tissue, which can be reimplanted later to restore fertility.
Fertility Preservation Options for Men
- Sperm freezing
Sperm freezing is the most common and easiest option for preserving fertility in men. It involves collecting semen samples and storing them in a sperm bank for future use.
This technique is especially useful for men who must undergo treatments that can affect the quality or quantity of sperm, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Preservation of testicular tissue
Similar to preserving ovarian tissue in women, this method is an option for men who are unable to provide semen samples, such as boys who have not yet reached puberty. The removed testicular tissue can be reimplanted or used to try to obtain sperm in the future.
When is it advisable to preserve fertility?
The decision to preserve fertility is a personal one and depends on several factors, such as age, health status, and life plans. Some situations in which fertility preservation may want to be considered include:
- Age: The quality and quantity of eggs in women and the quality of sperm in men decrease with age. If you’re over 20 and not ready to have children, fertility preservation might be an option to consider.
- Medical conditions: If you’ve been diagnosed with a disease or condition that can affect your fertility, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, or genetic problems, it’s crucial to evaluate preservation options before starting any aggressive treatment.
- Risk factors: Some people are at risk for an early decline in fertility due to family history, previous medical problems, or exposure to certain environments or substances.
How to choose the right clinic to preserve your fertility
Choosing the right clinic is a critical step in the fertility preservation process. Here are some aspects to consider:
- Experience and reputation: Research the clinic’s track record in fertility preservation management. Ask about the success rates and experience of doctors in these procedures.
- Technology and resources: Make sure the clinic has the most advanced technology and adequate facilities for egg, sperm, or embryo storage.
- Personalized attention: It is important that you feel comfortable and well cared for throughout the process. A clinic that offers a personalized and comprehensive approach will be better suited to guide you on this path.
- Location and accessibility: Consider the proximity of the clinic to your place of residence or work, and make sure that the hours of operation are compatible with your needs.
At Fertivida, we understand the importance of making informed and conscious decisions about fertility. We invite you to explore our fertility preservation services and receive the necessary support to protect your reproductive capacity and ensure your family future. Together, we can help you take control of your fertility and choose the right time to start the family you want.
