With Dr. Alexander Quaas, Shady Grove Fertility of San Diego
Egg freezing offers the opportunity to preserve fertility and keep options open for future family building. Whether you’re focused on your career, haven’t met the right partner, or simply want more time before starting a family, timing is an important factor when it comes to egg freezing success.
Why timing matters
Egg quantity and quality both decline with age—particularly after age 35. Because of this, the earlier you freeze your eggs, the better your chances of having usable eggs later when you’re ready to conceive. That said, age isn’t the only factor to consider.
“Egg freezing is about taking control of your reproductive future,” explains Dr. Alexander Quaas, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility in San Diego. “There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why an individual assessment is so important.”
Is egg freezing right for me?
The decision to freeze eggs is a personal one. If you’re in your early to mid-30s and not ready for children just yet, now may be an ideal time to start the conversation with a fertility specialist. Some people choose to freeze eggs earlier, in their late 20s, while others wait until their late 30s or early 40s. A fertility evaluation—including bloodwork and an ultrasound—can help determine your current egg supply and provide clarity on the best path forward.
Dr. Quaas adds, “I always tell patients: even if you’re not sure about having children, you’ll never regret having more options down the line.”
What happens if I wait?
While egg freezing is possible into your early 40s, it’s important to know that success rates tend to be lower with age. This is due to both a decrease in the number of eggs retrieved and an increase in chromosomal abnormalities. Freezing eggs earlier generally allows for better outcomes and a higher likelihood of future success with in vitro fertilization (IVF), should you need it later. The only downside to freezing eggs very early, for example at age 20-25, is the lower probability of actually using the eggs, because there are more reproductive years left to conceive naturally.
Next steps
If you’re considering egg freezing, the first step is a consultation with a fertility specialist. They’ll walk you through your options, discuss your reproductive goals, and help you understand what’s possible based on your unique biology. If you’re a Progyny member, your Progyny Care Advocate (PCA) can help you get started and guide you through the process.
More information
Visit Progyny’s education page on egg freezing at Egg Freezing | Progyny for more information.