Ever seen a feather falling from a tree? It peacefully dawdles its way down to the ground setting its own pace. The power of tranquillity to navigate your fate is invaluable. It may feel similar to a woman after getting an egg-freezing process when she can not only control her biological clock but can also plan her life simultaneously. Today, egg freezing is gradually gaining recognition as a method for preserving fertility. Despite increasing familiarity with the concept, many women hesitate to explore this option beyond the first conversation with their gynaecologist.
They want to understand the concept, technicalities of the procedure, and are also keen to debunk the myths diffused in the society. However, they only end up booking a consultation but may not proceed with the procedure. They are reluctant to immediately think about undergoing the procedure and dodge it for the future (even while knowing that by nature delaying the process means compromising the outcome). Science may not be the reason behind their inhibitions. Let’s discuss some of the factors that affect their decisions:
First Step: Several people don’t take the first of setting up a meeting with the doctor due to insufficient information and myths. Consuming information from open sources may not be enough to understand the worth of it. Limited awareness about the process can create barriers in individuals' willingness to consider egg freezing as a viable option.
Understanding the importance of Egg Freezing: Often, people plan a picture-perfect life without any barriers and challenges. While they may plan financial stability, they tend to pass planning fertility. For most, only conceiving naturally is part of the blueprint of their lives. They don’t foresee the challenges they may get due to age, medical conditions or lifestyle patterns. Hence, they wind up prioritizing other things than investing in egg freezing.
Medical conditions: Women often have certain medical conditions that can be one of the biggest inhibitions to go for egg freezing procedure. With ample conversations with the doctor and fertility test, they can assess if they can choose the decide the fate of their fertility.
Social stigma: Social factors also play a significant role surrounding egg freezing. People are still accommodating to the new culture. Certain societal stigmas and taboos around reproductive choices make it difficult for individuals to discuss their intentions or seek information about egg freezing. Fear of judgment or disapproval from family, friends, or the broader community can result in hesitancy and reluctance.
Emotionally prepared: People are generally petrified of any medical procedures they undergo. The process of the procedure, medication involved, restrictions to be followed, and side-effects among others. Before undergoing any medical procedure, one must take suitable time to be sure. Deciding to freeze one's eggs involves grappling with complex emotions and facing the reality of fertility challenges. Taking a psychological consultation can help people to recognize their fears and inhibitions.
Financial Management: Finance is another significant factor influencing hesitation toward egg freezing. People may think the procedure can be costly and doubt the affordability of the procedure. However, with time, the medical and financial system of our country is evolving. It is advised to take a financial consultation to manage the funds.
In conclusion, despite the growing awareness of egg freezing, several factors contribute to individuals' hesitations and inhibitions toward pursuing this fertility preservation option. Limited knowledge, social stigmas, emotional considerations, financial constraints, and medical uncertainties, play a role in shaping individuals' reluctance. Addressing these concerns through education, destigmatization, improved affordability, and increased accessibility can help alleviate hesitations surrounding egg freezing and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive futures.
The article is authored by Dr Nisha, Medical Director, Infinite a specialized egg freezing wellness centre.
