Fertility preservation has become an empowering choice for women and couples planning for the future. Two of the most common methods are egg freezing and embryo freezing. Though similar in process, they differ in important ways that affect flexibility, success rates, and long-term planning.
Egg Freezing
Egg freezing involves retrieving and freezing unfertilized eggs for future use. It’s a great option for women who are not yet ready to have children or don’t have a current partner. Eggs can later be thawed, fertilized, and implanted via IVF.
Embryo Freezing
Embryo freezing requires fertilizing eggs with sperm before freezing embryos on Day 5. It’s typically used by couples or individuals who are ready to commit to creating embryos now for use later.
Key Differences: Egg Freezing vs. Embryo Freezing
Aspect |
Egg Freezing |
Freezing |
| What is frozen? | Unfertilized eggs | Fertilized eggs (embryos) |
| Requires sperm? | No | Yes (fertilization occurs before freezing) |
| Best for… | Women who are single or not ready to choose a sperm source | Couples or individuals with a chosen sperm source |
| Fertility flexibility | More flexible – fertilization can occur later with chosen sperm | Less flexible – sperm source is “locked in” before freezing |
| Survival rate (post-thaw) | Slightly lower than embryos | Higher survival rates with modern freezing techniques (vitrification) |
| Success rates (live birth) | Generally lower than with embryos | Higher, especially for women over 35 |
| Legal/Ethical considerations | Fewer (no sperm used; no embryo rights issues) | More complex – embryos may raise legal and ethical issues |
| Storage duration | Can be stored long-term with minimal degradation | Also storable long-term |
| Use in IVF | Eggs must be thawed, fertilized, and grown into embryos | Already fertilized; can be thawed and transferred directly |
| Cost | Generally lower initially | Higher due to fertilization and embryo culture |
| Emotional considerations | Offers independence and future choice | May feel more “final” since embryos are already created |
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re looking to preserve fertility independently, egg freezing offers more flexibility. If you’re in a stable relationship and want to optimize success rates, embryo freezing might be the better path.
Both methods are effective tools for taking control of your reproductive future. One of our fertility specialists, Dr. Saleh and Dr. Collins, can help you decide between the two options based on your age, goals, and needs.