Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation) Treatment in India for UAE

Egg Freezing in India for UAE Patients | Hospitals & Cost

For many women in the UAE, the thought of preserving their fertility for the future is a significant consideration. Concerns about career commitments, finding the right partner, or managing health challenges can create uncertainty about when to start a family. Exploring options like egg freezing often comes with questions about quality, accessibility, and cost.

As patients from the UAE consider fertility preservation, many look beyond local borders for advanced solutions. India has emerged as a preferred destination, offering state-of-the-art reproductive technologies and highly skilled specialists. Its extensive network of fertility clinics across various cities ensures widespread access to these crucial services.

The Indian healthcare system has a strong foundation, known for its accredited hospitals and world-class medical professionals, particularly in reproductive medicine. Patients seeking egg freezing can trust in the expertise and advanced equipment available across the country, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate care throughout their journey.

Is India the right choice for your egg freezing needs?

What is Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)?

Egg freezing, medically known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where a woman's eggs (oocytes) are harvested, frozen, and stored for future use. This procedure offers women the ability to preserve their fertility at a younger age, allowing them to delay childbearing without compromising the quality of their eggs. When ready to conceive, the eggs can be thawed, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory (IVF), and transferred to the uterus. It provides a valuable option for family planning flexibility.

Are There Different Approaches to Egg Freezing?

When is Egg Freezing Recommended?

• For women undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation) that may damage ovarian function.
• In cases of medical conditions that might lead to premature ovarian insufficiency, such as autoimmune diseases or genetic predispositions.
• To preserve fertility for elective reasons, such as delaying childbearing for career advancement or personal circumstances.
• When there is a desire to undergo IVF but without a current partner to create embryos.
• For women who wish to preserve their eggs at a younger age to mitigate age-related fertility decline.

What Pre-Treatment Evaluation is Necessary?

• Hormonal Blood Tests: To assess ovarian reserve and overall fertility health, including Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and Estradiol levels.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound: To evaluate the uterus and ovaries, count antral follicles, and detect any cysts or abnormalities.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and other relevant infections to ensure safety.
• General Health Check-up: To confirm overall fitness for the procedure and medication protocols.

How is the Egg Freezing Procedure Performed?

The egg freezing process involves several carefully monitored stages, tailored to each individual's needs and physiological response.

What is the Recovery Process Like?

After egg retrieval, most women experience mild discomfort, such as cramping, bloating, or light spotting, similar to menstrual symptoms. These effects usually subside within a day or two. Patients are advised to rest on the day of the procedure and avoid strenuous activities for about a week. Follow-up instructions will be provided, and typically, a recovery period of a few days is sufficient before resuming normal, light activities.

What are the Risks and Success Rates?

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare but serious complication where ovaries become swollen and painful, typically managed with supportive care.
• Infection or Bleeding: Minimal risks associated with any invasive procedure, carefully mitigated in a sterile environment.
• Mild Discomfort: Temporary cramping, bloating, or pelvic pain after egg retrieval.
• Egg Damage: While vitrification significantly reduces this, there's a small chance some eggs may not survive the freezing and thawing process.

The success rate of egg freezing, particularly concerning live births from thawed eggs, is highly dependent on the woman's age at the time of freezing and the number of eggs stored. Younger women (typically under 35) tend to have higher success rates due to better egg quality. While outcomes vary, advancements in vitrification have significantly improved egg survival rates, offering a promising avenue for future fertility. Individual results depend on various biological factors and the quality of the medical facility.

Cost of Egg Freezing in India for UAE Patients

The cost of egg freezing in India can vary significantly based on several factors. These include the reputation and technology of the fertility clinic, the experience of the specialist, the specific medication protocol required for ovarian stimulation, the duration of egg storage, and any additional services like pre-treatment consultations or post-procedure care. Medications usually form a substantial part of the total expense.

Typically, the basic procedure for egg freezing in India ranges from INR 100,000 to INR 250,000. This estimate generally covers ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and initial freezing, but often excludes medication costs and annual storage fees, which are separate.

Support Services for Patients from UAE

• Assistance with travel arrangements, including flight bookings and airport transfers.
• Guidance and support for visa applications and extensions.
• Help with finding suitable accommodation options near the chosen hospital or clinic.
• Access to language interpreters to ensure clear communication with medical staff.
• Coordination of local transportation for appointments and daily needs.
• Facilitation of post-procedure follow-up care and remote consultations.

Essential Documents for Your Medical Journey

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.
• A valid medical visa for India (or tourist visa, depending on the case, with medical letter).
• All relevant prior medical reports, test results, and a referral letter from your local doctor.
• Copies of any previous fertility treatments or evaluations.
• Signed consent forms for the egg freezing procedure.

Preparing for Your Egg Freezing Procedure

• Follow all specific dietary and lifestyle recommendations provided by your fertility specialist.
• Adhere strictly to the medication schedule for ovarian stimulation as prescribed.
• Arrange for comfortable, loose clothing to wear on the day of egg retrieval.
• Ensure you have a companion or support person for the procedure and initial recovery.
• Refrain from eating or drinking for the specified period before the egg retrieval, usually 6-8 hours.
• Prepare mentally and emotionally for the process, understanding each step involved.

What to Expect After Egg Freezing

• Plan for adequate rest immediately after the egg retrieval procedure, avoiding strenuous activities.
• Manage any mild discomfort or cramping with over-the-counter pain relief as advised by your doctor.
• Follow specific instructions regarding activity restrictions and sexual activity for the recovery period.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and discuss storage details.
• Be aware of potential symptoms of OHSS and report any severe pain or bloating to your clinic immediately.
• Understand the long-term storage options and annual fees for your frozen eggs.

Ready to Secure Your Future Fertility?

Making the decision to freeze your eggs is a proactive step towards securing your reproductive future. We are dedicated to providing clear information and seamless support for patients from the UAE seeking this important treatment in India.