This blog post has been edited and published at: https://www.hannamfertility.com/hfc-blog/anna?
In 2023, I decided to move to Toronto from New York City by myself. As I am approaching my mid-thirties and navigating life without a stable partner, the resulting anxiety and uncertainty about the future have prompted me to consider egg-freezing.
Many people assume that the motivation to freeze eggs comes from the wish to have kids. For me, however, the question of having biological children is complex. Concerns about overpopulation and my own chronic illnesses make me think that adoption or childfree may be a better choice for me. As I contemplate this with many emotional twists and turns, several factors have eventually led me to the decision to go on this journey:
I like the idea of keeping options and possibilities. While I may not have a strong desire for children right now, that could change. Conversely, I might never use my frozen eggs and could potentially regret freezing them. However, I’ve come to understand that there isn’t always a clear right or wrong choice: it’s about making the best decision for my current situation, lifestyle, and mental well-being.
I have always been amazed by the development of medical technology that offers options once unimaginable. Part of me is excited about this process, especially when there is a drastic difference in the biological clock between males and females. Many women are forced to face the challenge of balancing their careers and having children starting at the age of 30. I believe that with continued progress in reproductive technology, we can further narrow this gap.
To me, finding the right partners is far more important than having biological children. I spent my childhood in China where the culture tells women that their worth and happiness are solely dependent on their roles as wives and mothers, freezing my eggs eases the pressure of settling down and having to find a partner in a certain window.
I began my pre-treatment on June 5, and started injections on July 1. Throughout the process, I received exceptional support from a dedicated team of phlebotomists, sonographers, nurses, and specialists, including nurse practitioner Eileen, Dr. Arthur (who also performed my procedure), and naturopath Dr. Vu. The entire process lasted about a month and a half and went smoothly.
As I write this blog during my recovery, I feel extremely fortunate to live in an era where technology offers many possibilities to women. I’ve also recognized the privilege of my position that I have the financial means to explore options that many may not. Currently, there is no country in the world that offers egg freezing for free for women unless for medical reasons, and in some places, the procedure remains illegal.
I’ve also learned that egg freezing is not an insurance. It’s not advisable for people to delay starting a family based on the belief that egg freezing guarantees future success. I’ve noticed many marketing campaigns sending women anxiety-provoking messages about fertility or advertising the procedure as easy as a manicure. Egg freezing is by no means a simple procedure that comes with risks and side effects. While some view egg freezing as an empowerment and liberation for women, for me, what is more valuable is all the knowledge I gathered through this journey: consulting with medical professionals, doing my research, reflecting on what I want in life, learning about the female body, fertility, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles, etc. and eventually making an informed choice – is what makes me feel empowered.
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