Costs

Egg freezing, formally known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a medical procedure that allows you to preserve your fertility by retrieving, freezing, and storing your eggs for future use. 

Egg freezing is an exciting and empowering option for those who want to take control of their fertility and pursue their life goals on their own timeline. But where should you start? In this article, we’ll share some factors to consider when selecting an egg freezing clinic that will give you the confidence and support you need throughout the process.

Reputation

When it comes to choosing an egg freezing clinic, reputation is key. It’s not just about the clinic, it’s also about the doctor you will work with. There are a few ways to find out the reputation of a clinic and specific doctor. You can research online, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from your doctor or friends who have undergone the procedure.

If you work with Cofertility to freeze your eggs, we have a list of vetted fertility clinic partners we will share to help you make a confident choice.

Experience and outcomes

Now that you’ve narrowed down the list, you can use the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) website to look up data on specific fertility clinics. SART data provides detailed information on the number of cycles performed, age of patients, and success rates for various fertility treatments, including egg freezing. By reviewing the SART data, you can gain insight into a clinic's expertise and quality of care for egg freezing. Here’s how:

1. Go to SART's website at www.sart.org.
2. Click on "Clinic Data" in the top menu and select "National Summary Report."
3. Choose the year for which you want to view the data.
4. Use the search bar to find the clinic you are interested in.
5. Click on the clinic's name to view their data.
6. Look for the section titled "Egg Freezing Cycles" to see the clinic's success rates for egg freezing.
7. Review the clinic's success rates for egg freezing and compare them to the national average.

Keep in mind that success rates alone may not give a complete picture of a clinic's quality. SART may also not be helpful when looking up newer clinics, as the data takes about two years to post. If you’re working with a newer clinic, you can look up the doctor’s previous clinic to learn more about their past track record.

Accreditation and certification

To ensure that you receive the highest quality care, look for clinics that are accredited and certified by respected organizations. These certifications demonstrate that the clinic has met rigorous standards for safety, quality, and performance. Specifically, look for:

• The Joint Commission (JCAHO) is an independent, non-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations in the United States. A fertility clinic that is accredited by the Joint Commission has met rigorous standards for quality and safety.
• College of American Pathologists (CAP) is a professional organization that accredits laboratories and pathology services. A fertility clinic that is accredited by the CAP has demonstrated proficiency in laboratory techniques and quality control.
• Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) reporting, as described in the section above. 

At Cofertility, we only partner with clinics that report outcomes to SART and have a CAP certified lab.

Technology and facilities

Egg freezing technology has come a long way in recent years, so it's important to choose a clinic that uses the latest equipment and facilities. By finding a clinic with state-of-the-art technology, you can be more confident that your eggs will be frozen and stored in the best possible conditions. Plus, a modern and comfortable clinic environment will help you feel relaxed and at ease during the process.

Here are some questions you can ask the clinic to get a better idea of their capabilities:

• What type of equipment do you use for egg freezing?
• How long have you been using this equipment, and how often do you update it?
• What is the success rate of your egg freezing procedure?
• Do you use vitrification or slow freezing? (You want a clinic that uses vitrification)
• What measures do you take to ensure the quality and safety of the eggs during the freezing process?
• Can you provide details about your laboratory and facilities for egg freezing, including any recent upgrades or renovations?
• Do you participate in research or clinical trials related to egg freezing?

By asking these questions, you can get a better sense of the clinic's commitment to using the latest technology and techniques for egg freezing, as well as their focus on quality and safety. A reputable and modern clinic will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with information to help you make an informed decision about your egg freezing journey.

The team

The staff at an egg freezing clinic can make all the difference in your experience. Look for clinics that have a team of knowledgeable, caring professionals who will guide you through every step of the process. The best clinics offer ongoing support and counseling to ensure that you feel confident and empowered throughout your egg freezing journey. During a consult, you’ll get to meet with the doctor and see if you click before moving forward.

Plus, if you work with us, you’ll get access to our team to help you every step of the way. 

Cost 

And last, but definitely not least, cost is an important consideration when choosing an egg freezing clinic. There’s no way around it, egg freezing is expensive. The typical egg freezing cycle can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 plus the cost of storage. A few clinics list their pricing on the website, but for most clinics, you will need to ask. Keep in mind that the price from the clinic does not usually include medications or long-term storage.  

Read more in How to Pay for Egg Freezing.

Cofertility can help

Freeze by Co offers women a chance to freeze their eggs for free when they donate half of the retrieved eggs to a family that can’t otherwise conceive. The cost of the entire process, including 10 years of cryopreservation, is fully covered. 

Or, if you want to freeze and store your eggs for your own future use without donating, Freeze by Co offers lower prices on things like consultations and storage, along with access to our community of women going through the process at the same time. ‍

At Cofertility, we believe that freezing your eggs should be an empowering experience that more women have access to. With our Keep program, you can more affordably freeze your eggs with partnerships that lighten the financial load and ongoing support from our team.  As a Keep member, you’ll benefit from discounts on things like consultations, treatment and cycle fees, and storage costs. You’ll also access our private Freeze by Co community, where you can connect with our team and with other women going through the egg freezing process at the same time.

Freezing your eggs is a big life decision — much like moving cross country, going back to school, or getting married. The process is often filled with unknowns, difficult to navigate, and financially inaccessible. Our goal is to support you every step of the way, and make it the best experience possible.

Why should I freeze my eggs, anyway? 

Whether you’re thinking about going back to school, wanting to invest in your career, unsure whether you want to have kids yet, or just haven’t found your ‘person,’ there are many different reasons why freezing your eggs might make sense for you. Over 70% of our members cite building their career or going back to school as the most important factors to them right now. Egg freezing is a way to keep your reproductive options open for later by preserving younger, healthier eggs for future use. What’s more, the prime time for freezing your eggs is actually a lot earlier than you think. Freezing your eggs while you’re still in your 20s can boost your chances of successful pregnancy, no matter your age when you decide to start your family. 

Overall, deciding to freeze your eggs can do more than provide family building options later in life. Going through the process of retrieving and freezing your eggs can give you insights into your health and offer you peace of mind about how you’ll accomplish your goals.

To learn more, check out our articles: Why Do People Freeze Their Eggs? Should I Be Thinking About It Too?, What’s the Best Age to Freeze My Eggs?, and When Should I Freeze My Eggs? 

How do I know if I am eligible for the Keep program? 

Unlike our Split program, where you freeze your eggs for free when donating half to a family that can’t otherwise conceive, the Keep program’s eligibility requirements are much less stringent. In fact, the decision to freeze your eggs through Keep will ultimately be between you and your doctor, once you both review your medical history and test results.

For example, while you must be between 21-33 to participate in Split, you can still take part in the Keep program as long as you are under age 40 (these are the clinics’ rules, not ours).

So whether you don’t qualify for egg donation, or simply are not interested in egg donation, the Keep program could be a great option for you. 

What are the benefits of the Keep program? 

By freezing your eggs through Cofertility’s Keep program, you’ll gain access to:

• Preferred and vetted fertility clinic recommendations in many major markets, with discounted or free consultations 
• Skip the line — many fertility clinics have months-long waitlists for egg freezers. If you work with one of our partner clinics, we’ll help get you through faster
• Special discounts on long-term egg freezing storage
• Dedicated, 1:1 support from our Member Advocates to help you through every step of your egg freezing journey
• Access to our members-only community of women in all stages of their egg freezing journey and direct, free access to fertility experts 
• Financial support and resources through our financing partner, Sunfish (waived application and membership fees for all Cofertility members)

What does the Keep process look like? 

Step 1: Fill out the intro quiz 

To kick off the process, take our quiz and tell us a bit about yourself. This only takes about a minute and gives a sense of what programs you might qualify for.

Step 2: Provide your desired location and timeline for the egg freezing process 

After you complete the intro quiz, you’ll receive an email from us with more information on our programs. We’ll ask you to respond back with more details on where (in which city or cities) and when you would like to freeze your eggs. This allows us to make custom recommendations tailored to your needs! 

Step 3: Receive fertility clinic recommendation and pricing 

We aim to share at least one pre-vetted, recommended fertility clinic near you based on patient reviews, outcomes, and success rates. We know this process can be expensive (between $10,000 to $20,000 per cycle), so we do our best to get you the best pricing. With many clinics, we negotiate preferred pricing for our Keep members, including discounted cycle fees and/or initial consultations. 

If we don’t yet have a clinic recommendation near you, we’ll add you to our waitlist for that city and reach out as soon as we do. Keep members are welcome to work with any clinic of their choosing and still be part of the program, but we aim to have at least one recommendation in each major market. 

Step 4: Set up an initial consultation with a fertility clinic 

Once you decide which clinic you would like to work with, we’ll help get you set up for an initial consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist. Most preferred clinics have guaranteed turnaround times for our members - so no more long waitlists! 

Step 5: Get added to the private Freeze by Co members-only community 

Once you book your initial consultation and confirm that you would like to be part of our Keep program, we’ll add you to the members-only, Freeze by Co community. This is where you can connect with others going through egg freezing at the exact same time and receive direct access to egg freezing experts through Q&As and webinars. 

Step 6: Get support with every step of your egg freezing journey 

We will stay coordinated with your fertility clinic and help guide you through every step of the egg freezing process. We’re here for you in a ‘been there, done that’ kind of way, and we will work with our medical advisors to get you answers to any questions you have! 

We also have several informative articles on our website that can serve as a primer for what to expect with the egg freezing process: 

• I Want to Freeze My Eggs: What's the Egg Retrieval Process Really Like? 
• What are the First Steps Towards Freezing my Eggs? 
• Everything You Need to Know About Egg Freezing 
• The Egg Freezing Process: a First-Timer’s Overview 
• A Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Your Eggs 

How much does it cost to be a Keep member? 

There is no fee to join the Keep program. The only costs you’ll pay are those directly related to your cycle (e.g., consultation fees, cycle fees, storage fees, and medications). There are a variety of different ways to fund your egg freezing journey, and we are flexible to work with you however it makes sense based on your needs. 

Have coverage through your employer or insurance for egg freezing? You can still use these benefits and join our Keep program! Your general health insurance may cover some of your screening and upfront blood work, so we suggest discussing it with the clinic you move forward with if you go through our Keep program.

Need help financing your cycle? We got you! We've partnered with lenders to offer you fertility financial resources. Sunfish offers the most comprehensive marketplace of financial options for egg freezing up to $100,000 at industry-low rates. Some clinics may also offer financing programs for egg freezing cycles. 

To learn more, check out our article: How to Pay for Egg Freezing 

Where do I sign up? 

There is no cost to join the Keep program. Take our quiz today and get your egg freezing process started!

While egg freezing has grown in popularity — with a 46% increase in egg freezing cycles from 2020 to 2021 alone! — it has also increased in cost. As a result, one question that often arises is whether existing healthcare financial structures, such as Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), can be used to cover these expenses. In this article, we delve into the complex and nuanced world of HSAs and FSAs, particularly as they relate to egg freezing.

How HSAs and FSAs work

An HSA is a tax-advantaged medical savings account available to individuals enrolled in a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). An FSA, on the other hand, is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows employees to contribute pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible healthcare expenses.

A key characteristic of HSAs and FSAs is their ability to be used for “qualified medical expenses,” which are broadly defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These expenses include costs associated with  diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, as well as  treatments affecting any part or function of the body. Importantly, the funds  can be used for expenses that are not covered by your health insurance plan, including deductibles, co-payments, and other non-covered expenses.

Is egg freezing a qualified medical expense?

The issue arises when we attempt to categorize egg freezing under these “qualified medical expenses.” As of the writing of the article, the IRS does not specifically list egg freezing as an eligible expense. However, they also do not explicitly exclude it. 

In their guidance, the IRS states that the primary purpose of the expense must be to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness. Therefore, if egg freezing is done for a medical reason, such as preserving fertility before undergoing chemotherapy, it may be possible to argue that it falls under “qualified medical expenses.” But when the procedure is carried out for non-medical reasons, such as lifestyle or career choices, it’s a gray area.

The IRS list is not all-inclusive, and medical eligibility is often subject to interpretation and specific circumstances. So if you’re hoping to use an HSA or FSA for egg freezing, you will definitely want to consult with a tax professional or an accountant to gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.

All of the expenses associated with egg freezing, and if they qualify

Egg freezing encompasses a range of expenses, each contributing to the overall cost. We break them down here as it’s possible that some - even if not all - may qualify in the eyes of the IRS. 

Initial consultation

This usually involves an appointment with a fertility doctor to assess your health, discuss the egg freezing process, and possibly begin preliminary testing. As this is a medical consultation, it may fall under "qualified medical expenses" if it’s related to a specific medical condition or concern.

Birth control

Birth control may be prescribed for the weeks leading up to your cycle to give your care team more control over the timing of your egg freezing procedure, help your ovaries better respond to fertility drugs, and minimize the growth of cysts. Prescription birth control generally counts as an eligible medical expense unless otherwise restricted by your employer's plan documents.   

Ovarian stimulation medications 

Prior to the egg retrieval procedure, you are given hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The IRS states that you can include the amount you paid for “prescribed medicines and drugs,” thus these medications may qualify.

Monitoring and lab work

During the egg freezing cycle, you will have multiple visits to monitor your hormones and follicle development. The categorization of the lab work and monitoring may depend on the specific medical circumstances surrounding the egg freezing cycle.

Egg retrieval procedure 

The egg retrieval procedure often involves the use of sedation or anesthesia. The retrieval and the associated anesthesia may be categorized as a medical expense, but it’s again contingent upon the specific circumstances.

Egg storage

The process of actually freezing the eggs and then storing them at sub-zero temperatures requires a significant amount of resources and technology. As of the current regulations, this is the expense that is least likely to be categorized as a “qualified medical expense.” The primary reason being that the IRS stipulates that healthcare storage (like cord blood banking) is only considered a qualified expense if it's reasonable to believe the stored material will be used to treat a pre-existing or imminent medical condition. 

If you qualify for our Split program, where you can freeze your eggs for free when you donate half to another family who can’t conceive (think: LGBTQ+ parents, those with infertility, and more), your cycle coverage includes up to 10 years of frozen egg storage! 

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Future thawing, fertilization, and embryo transfer 

These procedures occur if and when you decide to use your frozen eggs to attempt pregnancy. They involve further medical procedures and medications, which, under most circumstances, can be considered "qualified medical expenses."

Travel and transportation

Depending on the proximity of the clinic, travel and transportation costs may be a significant part of the overall expenses. However, the IRS typically does not include travel costs for non-emergency medical procedures as qualified expenses. Each case might be different, so consultation with a tax professional is advisable.

Supplements 

In some cases, women may be advised to take certain dietary supplements during the process to boost their overall health or egg quality. The IRS includes supplements as a qualified medical expense if they are used as “treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician” A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) could potentially justify their use as part of a broader treatment plan.

Despite the potential categorization of several of these procedures as qualified expenses, it's important to note that the overarching reason for the egg freezing process may influence whether these expenses are considered “qualified” by the IRS. This interpretation varies widely, so consultation with a tax professional or legal advisor is strongly recommended to understand your individual situation.

Getting a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN)

A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) plays a critical role when seeking reimbursement for medical procedures under consumer-directed healthcare accounts, including HSAs and FSAs. When it comes to egg freezing, this letter becomes an essential component to validate the procedure's medical necessity.

The LMN must be issued by a healthcare provider, often your treating physician, outlining the following crucial elements:

• Connection to medical condition: The LMN should detail the specific medical condition that necessitates egg freezing. This might include conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or pre-chemotherapy fertility preservation, among others.
• Treatment plan: The letter should include information on how the egg freezing will help alleviate or address the identified medical issue. It may outline the plan for potential usage of the stored eggs in future fertility treatments.
• Duration of storage: The LMN should also provide an estimation of how long the eggs need to be stored. Importantly, IRS guidelines stipulate that only short-term storage, up to 12 months, may be considered a "qualified medical expense." Storage fees that exceed this time frame may not be eligible for reimbursement under current regulations.

Egg freezing and storage for potential future use without a defined medical necessity is typically not considered eligible for reimbursement. The IRS guidelines center around the concept of medical necessity, which is why the LMN is such a crucial part of this process.

Other ways to pay for egg freezing

If you’re interested in egg freezing but learn that you cannot use your HSA or FSA funds,  there are other financial avenues to explore.

Employer coverage 

Various insurance providers and employers are starting to cover egg freezing and other fertility preservation methods. Progressive companies such as Google, Apple, and Facebook have already started offering egg freezing coverage as part of their benefits package. That said, we have a long way to go before egg freezing is offered as a commonplace employer benefit, which is why our accessible egg freezing programs are helpful to so many. 

Read more in What Employers Offer Egg Freezing Benefits?

Health insurance

Unfortunately, very few insurance plans today cover the full cost of egg freezing, unless it is medically necessary. For example, if you have a medical condition that may impact your fertility, such as cancer, your insurance may cover the cost of egg freezing as part of your cancer treatment. Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover egg freezing and what the requirements are.

Read more in Does Insurance Cover Egg Freezing?

Cofertility’s Split program

At Cofertility, our Split program allows you to freeze and store your eggs *entirely for free* for 10 years, when you give half to a family who can't otherwise conceive.

To see if you qualify, take our quiz and tell us a bit about yourself. This only takes about a minute and gives a sense of what programs you might be qualified for.

Financing

There are a growing number of financing options, such as loans or payment plans like Sunfish, to help patients pay for egg freezing. These options allow you to spread the cost of the procedure over several months, making it more manageable. 

Our take: IRS should rethink its stance on elective egg freezing 

As healthcare technology and societal norms evolve, there is potential for the IRS regulations to adapt and become more encompassing. Advocacy in this regard is crucial. For instance, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) are two organizations that have been pushing for more comprehensive coverage of infertility treatments, including egg freezing.

Summing it up

Using HSA or FSA funds for egg freezing is a nuanced and complex issue, largely dependent on individual circumstances and interpretations of IRS guidelines. While it may be possible under specific medical circumstances, women considering egg freezing for non-medical reasons may face more significant challenges in utilizing these funds.

As we navigate this evolving landscape, and encourage the expansion of “qualified medical expenses,” you’ll want to seek professional tax advice, and explore other financial avenues towards making egg freezing more accessible. Through our collective voices and efforts, we can work towards making fertility preservation a widely recognized and supported aspect of women's healthcare.

Freeze your eggs with Cofertility

We’d love the opportunity to support you on your egg freezing journey.

Through our Split program, qualified freezers can freeze their eggs for free when donating half of the eggs retrieved to a family who can’t otherwise conceive.

Through our Keep program — where you keep 100% of eggs retrieved for your own future use — we offer exclusive discounts on expenses, such as frozen egg storage. Keep members also still gain free access to our Freeze by Co Community, a safe space for those engaging in the egg freezing process (or gearing up for it) to connect and lean on each other.

By making egg freezing easier and more accessible, our programs further strengthen the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)’s Committee Opinion that egg freezing can help promote social justice and strengthen gender equality.

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, has grown in popularity, with a 46% increase in egg freezing cycles from 2020 to 2021 alone! This transformative medical procedure has garnered significant attention and interest. 

Amidst all the buzz and excitement, it's important to navigate your egg freezing journey with the facts. To ensure a successful and fulfilling experience, we've curated a guide to help you avoid seven common mistakes people make when freezing their eggs. 

Working with the wrong doctor

The importance of selecting the right doctor for your egg freezing journey cannot be overstated. Entrusting your reproductive health to a skilled and compassionate fertility specialist is paramount. Choosing a doctor who understands your unique needs, communicates effectively, and provides personalized care is essential for a successful egg freezing experience. 

Take the time to research and seek recommendations, ensuring you find a doctor who aligns with your values, instills confidence, and supports you every step of the way. Remember, the right doctor can make all the difference in your pursuit of fertility preservation.

Read more in What To Look For in An Egg Freezing Clinic

Not freezing their eggs sooner

We are born with all the eggs we will ever have, and lose them each month until we hit menopause and no eggs remain. Not only that, but our quality of eggs decline along with quantity. This is because eggs are more likely to contain chromosomal abnormalities (mistakes in their DNA) as we get older. 

One of the biggest mistakes individuals make is underestimating the impact of age on egg freezing. Fertility specialists often emphasize the significance of freezing eggs at a younger age, ideally before 40. Time is a precious resource when it comes to preserving fertility, and being proactive ensures a higher chance of success.

One survey study of 98 patients found that the vast majority of egg freezers showed no regret, stating that it was a good decision. But some stated that their only regret was not doing it sooner.

Overlooking lifestyle factors

Creating an optimal environment for egg freezing involves mindful attention to various lifestyle factors. Mistakes are made when individuals underestimate the significance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy habits. Embrace a nutrient-rich diet, prioritize stress management techniques, and maintain a consistent sleep routine. By incorporating these lifestyle choices, you not only enhance your overall well-being but also create an environment conducive to successful egg freezing.

Skipping the pre-freezing fertility assessment

Embarking on the egg freezing journey without a comprehensive fertility assessment is akin to navigating uncharted waters without a map. To avoid this mistake, consult a knowledgeable fertility specialist who can evaluate your ovarian reserve, hormonal levels, and overall reproductive health. This pre-freezing evaluation allows for a tailored approach and provides valuable insights into your ovarian reserve, which can help predict how well your body would respond to egg freezing medications. Knowledge is power, and a thorough assessment is the first step towards a graceful and informed decision.

Ignoring emotional support

The egg freezing journey can be emotionally charged, as it involves contemplation of one's fertility and future family-building aspirations. Neglecting emotional support during this transformative process is a common yet avoidable mistake. Seek a support system composed of loved ones, therapists, or support groups who can provide guidance, empathy, and understanding. Emotional well-being is the cornerstone of this journey, and by tending to it, you pave the way for a more harmonious experience.

If you freeze your eggs with Cofertility, our inclusive online spaces allow you to connect with others going through the process at the same time.

Thinking it’s an insurance policy

One misunderstanding people make when freezing their eggs is viewing it as an insurance policy against future infertility. While egg freezing does offer a chance to preserve fertility potential, it's important to understand its limitations and set realistic expectations.

Egg freezing is not a guarantee of future pregnancy. It is a proactive step to preserve eggs at a younger age when they are more viable, increasing the chances of successful conception later on. However, there are various factors that can influence the outcome, such as the quality of the eggs, overall health, age at the time of egg freezing, quality of the egg freezing clinic, sperm health, and the chosen fertility treatment in the future.

It's essential to have a clear understanding of the success rates associated with egg freezing and the potential limitations. The chances of achieving a successful pregnancy with frozen eggs can vary depending on individual factors and the quality of the eggs at the time of freezing. Consulting with a fertility doctor can provide valuable insights into your specific situation.

Failing to plan for the future

Freezing eggs is a remarkable step towards reproductive empowerment, but it should not be seen as a standalone solution. A mistake often made is neglecting to plan for the future beyond egg freezing. Engage in discussions with your fertility doctor about next steps, including potential pathways to parenthood, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). By mapping out your future plans, you embrace a sense of preparedness and ensure a seamless transition when the time comes to utilize your frozen eggs.

Paying too much

One of the common mistakes people make when freezing their eggs is not fully understanding the costs involved and potentially paying more than necessary. The pricing structure for egg freezing can be complex and opaque, leading to confusion and unexpected financial burdens. Average egg freezing cycle costs range from $10,000 - $20,000 for consultations, testing, ultrasounds, medications, and the egg retrieval, plus the ongoing cost of annual storage.

If you work with Cofertility, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best price when working with one of our partner clinics. Through our Keep program, we offer our members partnerships and discounts to lighten the financial load of egg freezing, as well as access to our member community.

Or, in our Split program, which offers women a chance to freeze your eggs *for free* when donating half the eggs to a family who cannot otherwise conceive. If you qualify for the program, every expense associated with the egg freezing procedure —  medications, supplements, travel if necessary, insurance, and 10 years of storage — are completely free of charge. We don’t even need a payment or credit card up front, as the family you match with covers all the expenses.

Let us help you freeze those eggs!

If you are interested in freezing your eggs, we can connect you with a fertility specialist for a consultation to discuss your specific situation. Our Freeze by Co platform is making egg freezing more empowering, positive, and accessible — even free — when you give half of the eggs retrieved to a family who can’t otherwise conceive.

Cancer is a challenging journey that often necessitates numerous life-altering decisions. For women of reproductive age, one of these critical decisions is understanding how cancer treatments might impact fertility and what can be done to preserve it. In this article we’ll explore this delicate intersection of oncology and reproductive health, and talk about the option of egg freezing.

The impact of cancer treatments on fertility

Cancer treatments, while lifesaving, can significantly affect fertility. These impacts can vary depending on the specific treatment, the dose, your age, and the area being treated.

• Chemotherapy medications, designed to target rapidly dividing cells, may inadvertently impact the eggs in the ovaries. This decrease can result in infertility, primary ovarian insufficiency, or a narrowed window of fertility, much like natural aging. Women over 35, having fewer eggs to start with, are more susceptible to this effect.
• Radiation therapy targeted at the pelvis or the entire abdomen can harm eggs and the uterus. The radiation can lead to scarring, or fibrosis, in the uterus, making it challenging for the uterus to accommodate a growing fetus. Consequently, women may face difficulties in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature labor.
• Treatments involving the brain, such as surgery or radiation, can affect the pituitary gland responsible for releasing hormones that stimulate egg maturation and ovulation. While the eggs in the ovaries are not directly damaged, the disruption in hormone regulation can affect fertility. However, hormone replacement medications may help restore fertility in these cases.
• Surgery involving one or both ovaries or the uterus can directly impact fertility. The degree of this impact would depend on the extent of surgical intervention.

If you are considering cancer treatment and are concerned about its potential impact on your fertility, it is important to discuss your concerns with your oncologist and/or a fertility doctor. They can provide you with information about the potential effects of cancer treatment on fertility and help you understand your options for preserving your fertility before treatment begins.

Egg freezing options

For those about to embark on cancer treatment, a few fertility preservation options can increase the chances of having biological children in the future. 

Egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) is a process involving stimulating the ovaries with hormones to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved and frozen for future use. The entire process takes about two weeks from start to finish, but the start date depends on your menstrual cycle. 

If you have a partner or choose to use donor sperm, the eggs can be fertilized before freezing, creating embryos for future implantation. The benefit of fertilizing the eggs immediately is that you will know how many embryos you have for future use.

Ovarian tissue freezing is a relatively new and experimental technique that involves surgically removing and freezing ovarian tissue, which contains thousands of immature eggs. This tissue can later be re-implanted to restore fertility or used to mature eggs in the laboratory. This may be an option for those who are not able to undergo egg freezing due the urgent need to begin cancer treatment.

To freeze or not to freeze

Making a choice on which fertility preservation option to pursue, if any, can be a difficult decision. A myriad of factors play into this decision, including your current health, age, cancer type, the proposed treatment regimen, personal circumstances, and future family plans.

Navigating a cancer diagnosis while also thinking about future fertility can be emotionally overwhelming. There are not only physical implications to consider, but also emotional, psychological, and social dimensions to this journey.

The chosen method must be compatible with your treatment plan and timing, as some methods require hormonal stimulation and time to mature and retrieve the eggs. A fertility doctor, alongside your oncology team, can provide the most accurate advice based on your unique situation.

It's important to seek emotional and mental health support during this challenging time. Reach out to your health care team, a mental health professional, supportive loved ones, or a support group of others going through a similar experience. It can be helpful to share your feelings, fears, and hopes, and to hear others' experiences and insights.

Financial considerations - how to pay for egg freezing 

Another important aspect to consider is the cost of fertility preservation treatments. These procedures can be expensive, and not all are covered by insurance. Average egg freezing costs range from $10,000 - $20,000 for consultations, testing, ultrasounds, medications, and the egg retrieval, plus the ongoing cost of annual storage. But ultimately depends on the clinic you’re going to, where you are located, the medications you are prescribed (it differs based on your age and body), and where/how long you store the eggs.

There may be ways to lessen the financial burden, including:

Insurance coverage 

Begin by thoroughly understanding your insurance coverage. Some health insurance plans provide partial or complete coverage for fertility preservation, especially in cases of medically necessary treatments such as cancer. Legislation in certain states mandates insurance coverage for fertility preservation for cancer patients. 

As of the writing of this article, these states require health insurance plans to cover medically necessary fertility preservation:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Texas
• Utah

Reach out to your insurance provider to understand what is covered and what out-of-pocket costs you can anticipate.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

If you have an FSA or HSA through your insurance plan, these funds can often be used to cover fertility preservation expenses. Check with your plan administrator to confirm what expenses qualify.

Tax deductions

The IRS has traditionally considered fertility preservation treatments, like egg freezing, to be tax-deductible when they are deemed medically necessary. This typically refers to situations where a medical condition or treatment (such as chemotherapy for cancer) could cause infertility. You’ll want to talk to a tax professional about which egg freezing expenses you can deduct from your taxes.

Negotiating prices and shop around 

Don't hesitate to discuss the costs with your fertility clinic. Some clinics may offer discounted rates or payment plans for individuals facing financial constraints. Get pricing from a few clinics to see your options. 

Financing options

There are a growing number of financing options, such as loans or payment plans, to help patients pay for egg freezing. These options allow you to spread the cost of the procedure over several months, making it more manageable. For example, Sunfish makes egg freezing (and fertility treatment in general) attainable for all types of families with low-interest loans or lines of credit.

Financial assistance programs and grants for cancer patients

Numerous organizations offer grants or financial aid to cancer patients seeking fertility preservation. Examples include the Livestrong Fertility Program, Team Maggie, Chick Mission, the SAMFund, The Ferring Heartbeat program, and Fertile Action. These organizations aim to alleviate the financial burden of fertility preservation and increase access to these vital services.

Crowdfunding

With the rising popularity of crowdfunding platforms, many people turn to their community, near and far, for financial support. Websites like GoFundMe can be used to raise funds for medical treatments.

Employer benefits 

Increasingly, employers are recognizing the importance of supporting their employees' reproductive health and are incorporating fertility benefits into their packages. Explore whether your employer offers any such benefits or whether they would consider adding them.

Options if you choose not to freeze your eggs

If you don’t freeze your eggs before cancer treatment, it's important to remember that does not mean the end of the road for parenthood. There are multiple paths available to build a family. 

It may be possible to regain fertility naturally after cancer treatments, particularly if you are under 30 at the time of treatment. You’ll want to talk with your oncologist and a fertility doctor about when it would be safe to try for a pregnancy and the potential risks involved.

For women whose ovarian reserve has been significantly impacted, the use of donor eggs can be a great option. In this process, eggs from a donor are fertilized with your partner's sperm (or donor sperm), and the resulting embryos are implanted in your uterus. This path allows you to experience pregnancy and childbirth.

If the uterus has been damaged by radiation or surgery, or if pregnancy poses a health risk, gestational surrogacy might be an option. In this case, an embryo (created with your egg or a donor egg and your partner's or a donor's sperm) is carried by a gestational carrier.

Finally, adoption remains a heartfelt path to parenthood for many individuals and couples. Adopting a child can be a fulfilling choice that meets the deep desire to raise and nurture a child.

Living with the aftermath of a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, particularly when it affects your family planning. However, remember that numerous avenues to parenthood remain open, and while they may not be the paths you initially envisioned, they can be equally rewarding and enriching. Your dream of becoming a parent can still be a reality; it might just involve a different route than you originally planned.

Summing it up

Navigating the landscape of cancer and fertility can be laden with emotional and medical complexities. However, armed with knowledge about potential impacts and available options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your future family-building aspirations. Your oncology and fertility teams can provide guidance and support, helping you weave your way through this intricate journey and minimizing future regrets. In the end, the goal is to optimize not just survival, but also quality of life and future dreams.

Maybe you already know the ins and outs of egg freezing, or maybe not — but (especially if you’re a med student), the question remains: how can you afford it? Or, better yet, could your school possibly even offer egg freezing as an insurance benefit? 

The answer? It depends, and it may differ whether you’re a student or faculty member. In this article, we’ll share an overview of egg freezing and the costs involved, why egg freezing is especially important to consider as a female in medicine, and what kind of egg freezing benefits universities may offer medical students and faculty. 

Why you should care about egg freezing

First things first: what even is egg freezing, and why should we talk about it? Egg freezing is a procedure where your eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for later use. While you may not end up needing them, if you do end up facing fertility challenges or decide to pursue donor sperm to grow your family, you can thaw your previously frozen eggs and fertilize them with sperm. This will, hopefully, lead to those eggs becoming embryos that can then be transferred to your uterus and ideally, result in a pregnancy. 

Data tells us that the younger eggs are, the healthier and higher quality they are. Our egg quantity also declines with age, so if you’re going to freeze your eggs, freezing at an earlier age is ideal and increases the likelihood of conceiving a biological child in the future. 

Female physicians face infertility at a higher rate

We hate to report this, but a recent study indicated that roughly 25% of female doctors trying to conceive face fertility challenges — just about double the rate of the general public. The rate of pregnancy loss among female surgeons is equally concerning; at 42%, this compares to the rate among the general public of 1 in 4 pregnancies ending in some sort of loss.

“Roughly 25% of female doctors trying to conceive face fertility challenges — just about double the rate of the general public.”

There are many factors that contribute to these statistics. For starters, female physicians are more likely to delay family building due to pursuing their medical education and residency. Depending on the specialty, many doctors will be well into their 30s before beginning to try for their first child. And, as previously explained, age can impact egg quality and quantity down the line. Combine this with the strain caused by the grueling lifestyle of residency, and the impact of a medical track upon a female physician’s fertility becomes even clearer.

Egg freezing coverage for med students and faculty

Before jumping into specifics around egg freezing coverage, it’s important to understand the concept of university healthcare insurance, especially for students.  

How university healthcare coverage works

Many higher education institutions offer health insurance plans to their students, either through the university itself or by facilitating access to external plans. These plans typically cover essential medical services, preventive care, and, in some cases, mental health services.

University health insurance plans usually operate on an annual basis. Students are required to enroll in or waive coverage at the beginning of each academic year. The cost of coverage is often included in tuition and fees, and coverage extends throughout the academic year, including breaks. Some plans also cover services rendered off-campus, providing flexibility for students studying abroad or residing off-campus.

However, the extent and details of coverage vary widely among university health insurance plans, and there are even various state-by-state regulations that govern what’s allowed. 

Egg freezing coverage for med students

So, if we know that medical professionals are more likely to experience fertility challenges, surely there must be sweeping, extensive egg freezing coverage to help them get ahead of it, right? These individuals are sacrificing their time, their livelihoods, their sleep, and their bank accounts to take care of us — so of course they’re being taken care of too, yes? 

For students, unfortunately, the answer is no. 

Typically, as part of university healthcare plans, elective procedures (chosen by the patient vs. being deemed “medically necessary”) such as proactive egg freezing are not covered. And, while many university healthcare institutions do have their own in-house fertility clinics with reproductive endocrinologists on staff conducting assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures daily, these services are not subsidized for students. 

Non-elective procedures that may be covered, on the other hand, might include things like egg freezing as a result of a cancer diagnosis. Some schools may even include infertility treatment as part of their student healthcare coverage. It’s essential for students to review their specific plan details to understand the scope of coverage and any potential gaps in benefits. 

One 2022 study found that only one medical school provides coverage for elective fertility preservation. Unfortunately, however, at the time of writing, we were not able to confirm which school is referenced (if this is your school — we want to hear about it!).

It is worth noting that some private fertility clinics will subsidize costs for med students, residents, or fellows, in recognition of the unique additional hardships that they face when it comes to family building. At the time of writing this, Massachusetts-based Boston IVF, for example, currently offers 25% off one egg freezing cycle plus 15% off medication through VFP Pharmacy Group for those individuals. With many locations nationwide, Shady Grove also offers a discount on egg freezing cycles (including monitoring, retrieval, and freezing) for surgical residents across various specialties. Their site is not clear on the exact discount, but you may contact ResidentEggFreezing@USFertility.com for the most up-to-date information. 

Egg freezing coverage for med school faculty

Like many employers, to entice the best and brightest minds, medical universities often tout the benefits that come along with working on staff. This includes healthcare coverage, and those plans may include some degree of fertility and family-building coverage. Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland, and the University of Michigan (to name a few) all provide faculty with the option of enrolling in their insurance plans that include fertility treatment coverage.

That being said, for egg freezing in particular, even for med school faculty it still has to be deemed “medically necessary” vs. “elective” in order to be covered within these plans. Instead, the healthcare coverage that’s usually provided tends to focus primarily on services for those trying to conceive — hormonal, IUI, or IVF treatment and medication. 

How to freeze your eggs more affordably

Given that elective egg freezing coverage — even for med students and faculty — tends to remain an out of pocket expense, you’re probably wondering how to afford the costs. Depending on where you’re located, your clinic, and your medication protocol, average egg freezing cycle costs can range anywhere from $10,000 - $20,000, plus annual storage fees. 

That being said, there are various ways to lighten the load of egg freezing costs, including financing, using money from your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), crowdfunding, and more. 

With Cofertility, though, you may be able to freeze your eggs completely for free if you donate half of the eggs retrieved to another family who can’t conceive through our Split program. This may include LGBTQ+ intended parents, those with infertility, or cancer survivors who want to grow their family. 

If you’re interested in learning more about our Split program, take our one-minute quiz to see if you’re eligible and get started. 

Read more:

• Why Do Female Physicians Face Higher Rates of Infertility?
• Everything You Need To Know About Egg Freezing Medication
• Do’s and Don’ts for Egg Freezing: Alcohol, Baths, Exercise, and More

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where a woman's eggs are retrieved, frozen, and stored for later use. This allows women to preserve their eggs at their current age, potentially increasing their chances of having a biological child in the future.

Egg freezing is becoming more and more common, with a 30% increase in egg-freezing cycles from 2021 to 2022 alone! 

I’m Dr. Meera Shah, a double-board certified OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist (REI). I have helped countless women freeze their eggs as a fertility doctor and as a Medical Advisor to Cofertility. This article is a guide to everything you need to know to make a confident, informed decision about egg freezing.

Why people choose to freeze their eggs

There are many reasons why women opt for egg freezing. Here are some of the most common reasons we hear:

• Focusing on other priorities: Women focusing on career or personal goals can freeze their eggs until they're ready to start a family.
• Waiting for the right partner: As the average age of first marriage continues to rise, some women choose to freeze their eggs instead of rushing into a marriage.
• Medical reasons: Women facing medical conditions or treatments that could impact fertility, such as chemotherapy or radiation, can freeze their eggs before undergoing these treatments.
• Genetic predisposition: Women with a family history of early menopause may choose to freeze their eggs to ensure they have viable eggs for future use.
• Peace of mind: Some women simply want the peace of mind knowing they have a backup plan for their fertility.

At what age should you freeze your eggs?

There is no perfect age at which to freeze your eggs. However, the younger you can do it, the better. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), an optimal time to freeze your eggs is in your 20s and early 30s, while you have a higher ovarian reserve and eggs are healthier. 

A large 2020 study at a fertility clinic that specializes in this area looked at egg freezing cycles for over 1,200 people. It compared the average number of eggs people of different ages were able to freeze versus the “optimal” or goal number of eggs they should freeze. This goal number was based on how many eggs would give them a 70% live birth rate after doing 1 or 2 egg freezing cycles (this rate is calculated using some other numbers and it typically goes up as we age to make up for the lower number of healthy eggs). 

The study found that younger people, unsurprisingly, have an easier time freezing the goal number of eggs in one cycle. As people aged, they needed multiple egg freezing cycles to reach that goal number.

Read more in What’s the Best Age to Freeze My Eggs?

Is it worth freezing eggs after age 35?

The findings from the study above bring up a common question–is it worth freezing eggs after age 35? Well, it depends. The ASRM does not recommend egg freezing for people older than 38, but this isn’t a strict cutoff. 

Your biological clock is not a cliff. Everyone’s fertility decreases down at a different rate. Having your fertility hormones checked can sometimes help you and your doctor get a general idea of your ovarian reserve and chance of a future pregnancy. This can better help you decide if egg freezing is right for you.

Egg freezing success rates by age

Success rates with egg freezing depend on a lot of factors: your health, your ovarian reserve, your response to egg freezing medication, and the quality of the clinic. That being said, generally, younger women have higher success rates due to better egg quantity and quality. 

A study of 1,241 women found that the average number of eggs retrieved on the first egg freezing round was:

• 21 eggs for women under 35
• 17 eggs for women 35-37
• 14 eggs for women 38-40

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Because women in their 30s tend to produce less eggs, at this age you may end up having to either settle for fewer eggs for freezing or undergo multiple rounds to collect enough eggs to have on hand for later implantation. As you can imagine, those costs can creep higher and higher the more rounds you endure. 

Now, you might be thinking: isn’t 14 eggs a lot?  It’s true that eggs retrieved from women under the age of 36 will have a 95 percent survival rate after being thawed.  But, not all thawed eggs will become viable embryos and lead to a live birth. The probability of a live birth varies with the age of the woman trying to conceive and the number of mature eggs available. In short, the older the woman, the more eggs required to achieve a high probability of a live birth. 

A study in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics further supports this point. For example, a woman under 35 will need nine eggs to achieve a 70% chance of having at least one live birth. If you’re trying to conceive in your mid to late 30s, you may need double as many eggs to achieve that same 70% success rate. 

The right number of eggs to freeze for your age

Different folks have different reasons for freezing their eggs. Some may be thinking about prolonging their fertility into the future. Others may be freezing some eggs but also hoping to donate some eggs to help others grow a family — something that’s done via our Split program, where you freeze for free when donating half of the eggs to a family that can’t otherwise conceive. 

Either way, studies have found that the optimal number of eggs to freeze really comes down to your age. That’s because the number of eggs in the body isn’t the only thing to decrease as you get older — egg quality decreases too, and egg quality is the number one factor in determining whether an egg can eventually result in a live birth. 

Here are the number of eggs you’ll want to freeze based on your age in order to obtain an optimal live birth rate:

Should I do multiple egg retrievals?

What happens if you don’t get as many eggs as you had hoped during your egg retrieval cycle? 

If you’ve undergone one round of egg freezing and the number of eggs your reproductive endocrinologist retrieved from your ovaries wasn’t as high as you’d hoped, you may want to talk to them about trying again. A fertility specialist can help you talk through all of your options.

There is technically no limit to the number of egg freezing rounds a person can undergo, but it’s not recommended that egg donors undergo more than six cycles. If you’re hoping to split your eggs with intended parents (donating half of the eggs retrieved) as part of our Split Program, you may find that additional retrievals help you provide the optimal amount of eggs for a live birth for you and for the intentend parents too. 

The right number of eggs to freeze to have multiple children

If you’re planning to have a big family one day, you may want to look at the number of eggs it’s recommended you freeze to achieve one live birth and talk to your Reproductive Endocrinologist (REI) about freezing more eggs. 

As we shared above, a woman under age 35 will need to freeze about nine eggs to achieve a 70% chance of a successful pregnancy and live birth. If you’re under age 35 now and thinking you might want to use frozen eggs to conceive twice in your future, you will want to freeze closer to 18 eggs.

The number of eggs necessary will increase with your age at time of the retrieval, and the number of children you hope to have via those eggs. 

Can frozen eggs guarantee a successful pregnancy in the future?

When trying to decide if you should freeze your eggs, it’s important to know that egg freezing is not an “insurance policy” for your fertility. While egg freezing can take some of the stress of having a baby right now off your shoulders, it is not a guarantee that you’ll have a baby in the future. 

Why not? Well, for one, not all the eggs that get frozen will actually be viable. It’s expected that some eggs will not survive the warming process when it comes time to use the eggs. In addition, the chances of the eggs that do survive being successfully fertilized depends on a variety of factors, including how old you were when you froze them (more on this later). 

This is not to sway your decision one way or another. Ultimately, only you and your doctor can decide if egg freezing is the right decision for you. But it's important to go in knowing that it’s not meant to be a done deal. As egg freezing has gotten more popular, many companies will gloss over this fact. We don't think that's right and want to be straight with you from the outset.

Freezing your eggs when you’re unsure if you want kids

Perhaps the biggest benefit of egg freezing is that it puts the decision-making power entirely in your hands. Whether you’re freezing your eggs because you want to focus on your career or you’re about to undergo medical treatment that may affect your fertility later on, or you’re waiting to find the right partner, freezing your eggs allows you to preserve some of your fertility independently. 

While you might not be sure about having kids today, if you do decide you want kids down the road, especially if you’re in your mid- to late-thirties, having eggs on ice will increase the chances that you’re able to do so.

Know this: most people do not regret their egg retrieval procedure. We looked at five studies on egg freezing. The rates of regret reported in these studies varied, likely due to the sample size, study design, and the follow-up period. However, taken together, these studies suggest that the vast majority of those who freeze their eggs have zero regrets.

There also appear to be factors that reduce the chances of regret, including feeling fully informed beforehand, and getting adequate support during the egg freezing process. In other words, if you take the time to think things through and feel supported throughout the journey, you’re less likely to regret making this decision for yourself.

The egg freezing process: step-by-step

The egg freezing process is about a two-week journey. You will work closely with a Reproductive Endocrinologist (fertility doctor) and the clinic team throughout the process. 

Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from start to finish, and beyond:

1. Ovarian stimulation: You'll take hormone medications to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, and have multiple monitoring appointments and blood tests to see how the eggs are maturing.
2. Egg retrieval: Your eggs will be retrieved through a minor surgical procedure using ultrasound guidance.
3. Vitrification: Your eggs will be rapidly frozen using a technique called vitrification, which helps preserve their quality.
4. Storage: Your frozen eggs will be stored in a secure facility until you're ready to use them.
5. Thawing and fertilization: When you're ready to conceive, your eggs will be thawed, fertilized with sperm (either your partner's or a donor's), and transferred to your uterus.

Will egg freezing hurt my future fertility?

Egg freezing actually rescues all the other eggs that your body would otherwise allow to die during a normal menstrual cycle. So the process of egg freezing doesn’t take anything away from your egg reserve, it actually helps you save some extra eggs! And since during each cycle, your body goes through the ovulation process again with a new set of competing eggs, your chances of getting pregnant unassisted in the future also aren’t affected by egg freezing. 

What egg freezing does do is give you additional options for if and when you’re ready to start growing your family.

Is egg freezing safe?

Like any other procedure, there are risks and side effects when freezing eggs, including risks of anesthesia, bleeding, pain, and infection. Thankfully, the majority of people who go through with it deal with side effects for a few days at most. When it comes to the ovaries themselves, they generally recover quickly. The overall data indicate that the potential risks of surgical complications from egg retrieval are generally very small. However, in people with a history of endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic adhesions or previous pelvic surgery, the risks are slightly increased so make sure to speak to your doctor about your medical history if you fall into any of these categories.

Egg freezing vs embryo freezing 

There’s one major difference between freezing eggs and freezing embryos. When you freeze your eggs, they stay unfertilized. We all know that to make a baby, you need an egg and a sperm because each of them provides half of the material needed. On its own, an egg can’t function (and neither can a sperm).

An embryo, on the other hand, is an egg that has already been fertilized by a sperm. Once they combine, the egg and sperm become a single cell. Over the next three to four days, the embryo divides several times, going from one to two to four to eight cells, and so on until it reaches the blastocyst stage and is ready to be frozen. Once an embryo has developed, there’s no going back– that is, there’s no way to turn that embryo back into a separate egg and sperm. 

If you don’t know who you want to have children with, then freezing your eggs may be the best approach. This option gives you the freedom to hold off on thinking about having a baby until you’ve met someone or are ready to choose a sperm donor. 

On the other hand, if you are currently with a partner who you know you’d like to have children with but now isn’t the right time, then frozen embryos might be the way to go with the goal of a future embryo transfer. The caveat here is to be 100% certain—stars like Sofia Vergara and more recently, Anna Kendrick, have run into trouble after freezing embryos with partners they didn’t end up with. 

Read more in Should I Freeze Eggs or Embryos?

Cost of egg freezing

The question of how much does it cost to freeze your eggs will come down to a few factors. These include the number of cycles you undergo to retrieve eggs and how long you keep the eggs in storage. Overall, the typical egg freezing can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 for one cycle plus the cost of storage fees.

Another option? Freeze by Co offers women a chance to freeze their eggs for free when they donate half of the retrieved eggs to a family that can’t otherwise conceive. The cost of the entire process, including 10 years of cryopreservation, is fully covered — we think it’s a win-win. 

Or, if you want to freeze and store your eggs for your own future use without donating, Freeze by Co offers lower prices on things like consultations and storage, along with access to our community of freezers. ‍We partner with lenders, like Sunfish, to offer you fertility financial resources.

Learn more about egg sharing

Egg sharing programs exist worldwide to help make fertility care more accessible. Egg sharing is when a woman undergoes an egg retrieval, and some of the resulting eggs are donated to a family that can’t otherwise conceive.

In Cofertility’s Split program, women can freeze their eggs for free when they donate half of the retrieved eggs to a family who can’t otherwise conceive. 

Ask us anything

If you’d like help figuring out when to freeze your eggs, you can contact us for more information. While every woman’s fertility preservation path differs, we can connect you with reputable clinics who can offer basic guidance about when the time is right for you to freeze your eggs during a consultation or dig into specifics by going through a preliminary exam in a provider’s office.

We understand that the timing may not be right for you to start a family right now, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to start thinking about what choices will be available to you when that time comes. As you can see, a lot goes into preparing for an egg retrieval process.  The earlier you consider your fertility, the more options you’ll have. 

Whether you decide to freeze or not, we’re here for you to answer any questions or talk through any concerns. 

Thanks to developments in medical technology, a growing emphasis on reproductive autonomy (thank goodness), and opportunities like our Split program, egg freezing is now more accessible than ever. However, the financial commitment doesn’t stop with the initial freezing process. A key consideration is the long-term cost of storing frozen eggs, an important component of financial planning for those pursuing egg freezing.

Understanding frozen egg storage costs can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive future. Whether you're considering freezing your eggs now or managing storage costs from a previous cycle, knowing the financial breakdown can ensure better long-term planning. After all, these days, frozen eggs can be stored indefinitely. 

Below, we explore the typical expenses associated with frozen egg storage and the factors that can affect these costs. One note: this article contains figures provided at the time of writing, and they may all be subject to change over time. 

Average costs of egg storage

Retrieving and freezing your eggs is just the beginning. Once frozen, your eggs will need to be stored, and the cost of egg storage can vary widely depending on the facility, location, and other factors. Here's a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for storing your frozen eggs:

Annual egg storage fees

On average, storage fees for frozen eggs can range from $500 to $1,000 per year. These fees cover the ongoing maintenance of your eggs at sub-zero temperatures in a cryobank or fertility clinic. Some clinics in major metropolitan areas may charge upwards of $1,200 per year, while smaller clinics or cryobanks in less populated regions may offer more affordable rates.

Many facilities offer discounts for pre-paying for several years of storage upfront. These long-term storage plans may reduce the yearly cost to around $400 to $700 per year, depending on the contract length. Typically, clinics offer 3-to 10-year prepaid storage options, with deeper discounts for more extended commitments.

You also have the option of working directly with a long-term storage facility. Cofertility partners with TMRW Life Sciences, which offer our members – regardless of where they froze their eggs – discounted long-term storage rates (more on that below!).

Transportation costs 

In addition to the annual fees, there may be other costs to consider, such as the cost to transport your eggs to a different facility or clinic. Moving frozen eggs between storage facilities, either across town or internationally, can cost up to $1,500, depending on the logistics involved.

Factors affecting egg storage costs

Several factors influence the total cost of storing your eggs. Here's a look at the most common elements that determine frozen egg storage pricing:

Geographic location

Like most medical or cryopreservation services, egg storage costs vary significantly depending on the location of the cryobank or fertility clinic. Facilities in major cities tend to charge more due to higher operational costs. In contrast, clinics in smaller towns or rural areas may offer more affordable rates. Women freezing their eggs in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles may see storage fees at the higher end of the spectrum, while facilities in less densely populated areas might provide more budget-friendly options.

Type of egg storage facility

‍The type of facility storing your eggs also plays a role in the cost. Fertility clinics, dedicated cryobanks, and hospital-affiliated storage facilities all have different pricing structures. Fertility clinics often charge more for egg storage, as they may outsource the service to third-party cryobanks and tack on additional fees. Dedicated cryobanks, such as TMRW Life Sciences, may offer better deals, especially if they specialize in long-term storage. Hospitals with fertility departments may provide storage, but the costs can vary significantly depending on their resources and expertise in fertility preservation.

Storage duration

The length of time you store your eggs also impacts the total cost. As mentioned earlier, many facilities offer discounts for long-term storage commitments, with prepaid plans that can save you money over time. If you expect to store your eggs for five years or more, opting for a multi-year plan may be a smart financial decision.

Additional services

Some clinics or cryobanks charge extra fees for services like annual maintenance, insurance, or egg retrieval for future use. These services can add hundreds of dollars to your overall storage costs, so it's essential to ask about all potential fees upfront when choosing a storage facility.

One note: check with your clinic to see if the number of eggs stored (or number of cycles) will impact your annual storage fees. It generally doesn’t, but worth confirming directly. 

Tips for managing egg storage costs

While egg storage costs can add up over time, there are several strategies you can use to manage these expenses more effectively:

Shop around

Don’t assume you must store your eggs at the same fertility clinic where they were frozen. In fact, many fertility clinics send eggs to third-party cryobanks for storage and may charge an additional fee for this service. It's worth researching local cryobanks and comparing their rates directly, as this could save you money. If you’re interested in learning more about storage with TMRW, Cofertilty’s team can get you connected directly. 

Consider bundled packages

Some clinics offer bundled packages that include both the egg freezing process and a certain number of years of storage at a discounted rate. If you're just beginning the egg freezing process, ask about package deals that could save you money on storage costs in the long run.

Explore financial assistance options

There are several grants, financing programs, and payment plans designed to help women cover the costs of egg freezing and storage. For example, organizations like Baby Quest and the Cade Foundation offer grants for fertility preservation, while some clinics may provide in-house financing options. We’ve actually got a whole article about various ways to pay for egg freezing, which you can find here. 

Our programs

We offer our members ways to help reduce or eliminate storage costs altogether. With our Split program, where you freeze your eggs for free when donating half of the mature eggs retrieved, storage is entirely free for 10 years. Alternatively, the Keep program allows you to freeze all of your eggs for your own future use, while still accessing discounted rates for storage through Cofertility’s partnership with TMRW Life Sciences. 

Cofertility’s partnership with TMRW Life Sciences

We’ve partnered with TMRW Life Sciences to offer our community exclusive storage rates, helping to save thousands on frozen egg storage costs. TMRW’s state-of-the-art facility provides unparalleled transparency, safety, and accountability, using advanced digital labeling and RFID tracking technology to monitor the storage of your frozen eggs continuously. 

With TMRW, you also have constant access to data about your eggs, so you can feel confident that they are being stored securely and safely.

Summing it up

Egg storage costs are an often overlooked part of the overall financial planning process when considering egg freezing. From annual storage fees to potential transportation costs, it's important to understand all the factors that contribute to the total cost of egg freezing. 

By exploring different storage options, taking advantage of bundled packages, and considering innovative opportunities like our Split and Keep programs, you can manage your egg storage costs more effectively while safeguarding your reproductive future.

To learn more about our Split program and see if you qualify, click here!

Read More:

• Egg Freezing: How Long Can My Eggs Be Stored?
• What Happens to My Eggs After Egg Freezing?
• What Happens to My Frozen Eggs if I Never Use Them?
• How to Pay for Egg Freezing