Split

If you’re an active-duty service member or spouse and thinking about freezing your eggs, you’re not alone. Many women in the military are interested in preserving their fertility, especially given the demanding nature of military life. Between deployments, relocations, and irregular schedules, starting a family may not be a priority right now—but that doesn’t mean you want to close that door entirely.

In this article, we’ll walk through how egg freezing works for military personnel, what TRICARE does and doesn’t cover, which military hospitals offer reproductive services, and how egg sharing programs like Cofertility’s can help bridge the gap if you're looking to freeze your eggs for personal (non-medical) reasons. We’ll also get into what to expect logistically, how to time your cycle, and what options exist if you don’t qualify for military benefits.

What TRICARE covers—and what it doesn’t

Let’s start with the basics. According to TRICARE, the health plan for active-duty service members, retirees, and their families, elective egg freezing is not covered under standard military insurance benefits. That means if you’re freezing your eggs for non-medical reasons—like delaying parenthood, focusing on your career, or preserving your options—you’ll have to pay for it out of pocket. This includes all parts of the process: medications, monitoring, the egg retrieval procedure, and long-term storage.

TRICARE does cover fertility preservation (including egg retrieval and storage) if your fertility has been impaired by a serious or severe illness or injury related to your service. This includes things like combat injuries that affect your reproductive organs or chemotherapy received during active duty. In these cases, coverage is provided through the Supplemental Health Care Program, which falls under a different category of military healthcare and applies to both male and female service members.

To qualify under this medical exception, you must:

• Be an active-duty service member
• Have a Category II or III illness or injury sustained during active duty
• Be unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy without assisted reproductive technology (ART)

If you meet those criteria, TRICARE will cover services like egg retrieval, sperm retrieval, IVF, and intrauterine insemination. And according to TRICARE, if you paid out of pocket for any of these services after March 8, 2024, you may be eligible for reimbursement.

Where you can get fertility care in the military system

Even though TRICARE doesn’t generally cover elective egg freezing, some military hospitals do offer ART services at a significantly reduced cost. These services are available to eligible service members and beneficiaries on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on availability.

As of now, eight military hospitals offer reproductive endocrinology and infertility care through their graduate medical education programs:

• Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD)
• Tripler Army Medical Center (Honolulu, HI)
• Womack Army Medical Center (Fort Liberty, NC)
• Madigan Army Medical Center (Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA)
• Brooke Army Medical Center (Fort Sam Houston, TX)
• Naval Medical Center San Diego (San Diego, CA)
• Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (Portsmouth, VA)
• Wright-Patterson Medical Center / 88th Medical Group (Greene County, OH)

While these programs prioritize care for service members with qualifying medical conditions, some do accept elective patients on a limited basis. Costs are often significantly lower than in the civilian market, but availability is highly variable, and waitlists are common.

Why egg freezing may still make sense, even without coverage

Military life is unpredictable. You might be deployed overseas with short notice, move across the country every few years, or find yourself in leadership roles that demand your full attention. Fertility doesn’t hit pause while you or your spouse serves—and unfortunately, egg quality declines with age regardless of your fitness level or overall health.

For many women in the military, freezing eggs can be a way to create flexibility down the line. It gives you more reproductive options, especially if you’re not ready (or able) to start a family during your service years. Even if you don’t end up using those eggs, having them stored offers a sense of security.

How Cofertility’s Split program fits in

If you’re interested in egg freezing but can’t afford the costs out of pocket—and don’t qualify for ART coverage through TRICARE—Cofertility’s Split program may be a great option. Through this program, you can freeze your eggs for free if you qualify and donate half of the eggs retrieved during your cycle to a family who needs them.

Here’s what’s covered through Split:

• All fertility clinic fees
• Medications and monitoring
• Egg retrieval procedure
• Storage for your half of the eggs for up to 10 years

In exchange, the other half of your eggs are donated to intended parents who are ready to grow their family. You’ll never be asked to pay for anything out of pocket, and you’ll receive personalized support from our team throughout the process.

Eligibility and what to expect

Unfortunately, not everyone will be eligible for Split. Like all egg donation programs, Cofertility requires certain medical and personal criteria, including:

• Age 21–33
• No smoking or significant reproductive health issues
• Willingness to undergo genetic testing and psychological screening
• Ability to provide a biological family medical history

If you were adopted or donor-conceived and don’t have access to your biological family’s health history, that may affect your eligibility. If that’s the case, you might consider freezing your eggs through our Keep program, where you keep 100% of your eggs and pay out of pocket, but get access to discounts and dedicated support.

How to time your cycle around military life

Timing is one of the biggest concerns for active-duty service members. An egg freezing cycle typically takes about two weeks of daily hormone injections, during which you’ll need to visit the clinic several times for bloodwork and ultrasounds. Then comes the egg retrieval itself, which is a minor surgical procedure with a short recovery time.

If you’re on active duty, here are a few ways to make it work:

• Plan around a block of leave or light-duty status
• Schedule during a stateside posting or training pause
• Coordinate with your supervisor for time off (how much you share is up to you)
• Stay near one of our partner clinics for the duration of your cycle

We understand that flexibility is limited in the military, but we’ve seen it work when there’s advance planning and support in place.

Privacy and confidentiality

Understandably, many service members want to keep their fertility planning private. With Cofertility, all of your care is coordinated through private clinics—not the military medical system. Your participation in the Split or Keep programs is confidential and never reported to TRICARE or your command.

That said, if you’re requesting leave or modified duty to attend appointments, you may need to give some explanation. Some choose to share openly, while others keep it general and simply say it’s for a medical procedure. Either is completely fine.

Read more in Should I Tell My Boss I'm Freezing My Eggs

What if you’re based overseas?

If you’re currently stationed abroad, your options are more limited. While some countries offer fertility care for military personnel at allied clinics, elective egg freezing is unlikely to be available through TRICARE or DoD channels. In most cases, you’ll need to wait until you're back in the U.S. to start the process—or coordinate a trip home during leave.

Bottom line

According to TRICARE, egg freezing for non-medical reasons is not covered under standard benefits. ART services, including egg retrieval, are only available to service members who sustained a qualifying injury or illness during active duty that impairs fertility. However, eight military hospitals do offer ART services at reduced cost, and may accept elective patients when space allows.

If you don’t meet the medical criteria but still want to freeze your eggs, you’re not out of options. Programs like Cofertility’s Split offer a path to free egg freezing when you donate half your eggs to another family. For many women in the military, this can be a way to take control of their reproductive future without waiting for policy to change.

Military service asks a lot—and family planning often gets pushed to the back burner. But if you’re thinking ahead, egg freezing might help create the space you need to build the life you want, when the time is right. We're here to help you explore that, every step of the way.

If you were conceived with the help of donor sperm or eggs and are now considering becoming an egg donor yourself, you might be wondering: Does being donor conceived disqualify me from donating? And what if you don’t have access to your biological family’s medical history?

These are valid questions, especially since many donor-conceived people grow up without detailed information about their genetic background. In this article, we’ll explain how being donor conceived impacts your eligibility to become an egg donor, why biological family history matters, and what options exist if you’re missing that information. We’ll also look at how this differs depending on whether you’re pursuing a disclosed or undisclosed donation.

Why egg donation programs ask about biological family history

Whether you were donor conceived or not, all egg donors are required to complete a detailed medical history, including information about biological family members. This family health information helps fertility doctors and intended parents assess the risk of inherited conditions that could affect the child conceived from the donation.

This requirement is about safety and informed choice. Certain conditions, such as some cancers, heart disease, or genetic syndromes, can be passed down through families. A clear understanding of the donor’s family history helps fertility doctors and recipient parents make responsible medical decisions. It also provides important context for donor-conceived children down the road.

If you were donor conceived and don’t know the medical history of both biological parents (including the donor), that could present a challenge. Clinics can’t evaluate genetic risk if they don’t know what conditions might run in your biological lineage.

What this means if you’re donor conceived 

Being donor conceived doesn’t automatically disqualify you from donating your eggs. What matters is whether you can provide a detailed medical history for your biological (donor) side of the family as well. Fertility clinics aren’t concerned with how you were raised, they’re focused on understanding the genetic picture that could be passed on to a child born from your donation.

If you were conceived using donor sperm, for example, and you were raised by your biological mother, you’ll likely be able to provide full medical history on her side. But you’ll still need information about your biological father—the sperm donor—for your application to move forward. The same applies if you were conceived using donor eggs; even if you know your intended mother well, you’ll need access to the egg donor’s family medical history in order to be considered as a donor yourself.

If you’re in contact with your donor or know their identity, that makes this much more straightforward. Some donor-conceived people have open relationships with their donor or have connected through DNA testing or registries. Others have obtained medical histories through the original sperm or egg bank, especially if the donor was open-ID or if the bank provides medical updates. If you can access the donor’s medical history through these means—even if you don’t have a personal relationship—that can be enough to meet requirements.

What if you don’t know your donor parent’s identity or health history?

This is a common situation, especially for those conceived from anonymous sperm or egg donation. If you don’t have any information about your donor parent—or if you only have partial details—you’ll likely run into issues during the donor screening process.

The FDA and fertility clinics require a detailed family medical history for egg donors, and not having that information usually means you won’t be eligible to donate anonymously or through traditional egg banks. That’s not a reflection on you—it’s a medical requirement to ensure the safety of the future child and peace of mind for recipient families.

Are there any exceptions?

There are some situations where someone who is donor conceived might still be able to donate:

• Access to donor records or contact: If the donor was open-identity and you’ve connected with them or accessed their medical history through a donor registry or DNA matching site, you might be able to provide the necessary family health information.
• Known donation with informed consent: In some cases, a known recipient may be willing to proceed with donation even if part of your family medical history is unknown. This route typically requires legal contracts and psychological counseling to ensure everyone understands the risks and limitations. Not all clinics accept known donors with incomplete histories, but some may review these cases individually.

What clinics look for in a donor’s medical background

When you apply to be an egg donor, clinics typically want:

• Your own medical history (e.g., chronic conditions, surgeries, medications)
• Your immediate biological family’s health history (biological parents and siblings)
• Extended family medical history going back at least two generations
• A clear record of any hereditary conditions, including mental health, cancers, and genetic disorders
  

If any of this is missing, such as in the case of anonymous donor conception, most clinics will not move forward with donation unless you’re able to fill in the gaps.

Known donation as a possible path

For some donor-conceived individuals, known donation may offer a viable alternative. This means donating to someone you know—such as a relative, friend, or partner—who is fully informed about your background and still wants to move forward.

In these cases, the recipient may waive the requirement for full biological family history. But you’ll still go through medical and psychological screening, and legal agreements are almost always required to make sure expectations are aligned. Not every clinic accepts known donors without complete medical histories, but some will consider it under the right circumstances.

If you’re thinking about this route, reach out to the intended parent’s clinic or a donor coordination team to find out what’s possible.

What are your options if you can’t donate?

If you don’t qualify to donate because you don’t have enough information about your biological family, you still have meaningful ways to be proactive about your reproductive health:

• Freeze your eggs for your own use. Family history is considered during this process, but not having it doesn’t disqualify you. Your doctor will rely more on your lab results, hormone levels, and personal medical history.
• Advocate for more access. If you’re interested in tracking down more biological information through a donor registry, DNA testing, or open ID donor connections, you may eventually be able to gather what’s needed.
• Explore other forms of family-building support. Many donor-conceived people are passionate about helping others become parents. There are other ways to contribute—whether that’s through advocacy, education, or emotional support.
  

The bottom line

If you’re donor conceived and don’t have access to your biological family’s medical history, you may not be able to donate your eggs through a traditional egg donation or egg sharing program. That’s because clinics are required to assess inherited risks—and without that information, they can’t move forward responsibly.

However, if you do have access to the donor’s health information, or you’re pursuing a known donation with legal and medical support, egg donation may still be an option. Either way, your interest in helping others grow their families is something to be proud of—and you still have control over your own reproductive choices, even if egg donation isn’t possible.

If you were adopted and are considering becoming an egg donor, you’ve probably come across the question: “Do you know your biological family’s medical history?” For many adoptees, the answer is no—and that can be a frustrating sticking point when you're otherwise healthy and eager to help someone build a family.

In this article, we’ll break down why biological family medical history is required in the egg donation process, how that impacts people who were adopted (especially in closed or international adoptions), and what your options are if you want to donate but don’t have access to that information. We’ll also touch on when an adopted person can donate, and when the lack of family history may be a disqualifier.

Whether you're adopted yourself or just trying to understand the egg donation process more clearly, this guide will give you the context you need to move forward with realistic expectations.

Why egg donation programs ask about biological family history

When someone applies to donate their eggs, fertility clinics and egg banks typically follow ASRM and FDA guidelines and ask for a detailed medical history—not just about the donor, but also about their biological family. This includes three generations of health information: parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and sometimes cousins.

This requirement exists for a few reasons. First, some medical conditions have a strong genetic component. Knowing if a donor’s family has a history of things like early-onset cancers, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, or hereditary syndromes helps clinics and recipients make more informed choices. Second, egg recipients are often looking for transparency—they’re making major decisions about their family and want as much information as possible about the donor's health background, including inherited risks that could affect the child.

To be clear, having health conditions in your family history doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but not having any biological family history usually does. That’s where it becomes an issue for many adopted people.

What this means if you’re adopted

If you were adopted and don’t have access to your biological family’s medical history, you may not be eligible to donate your eggs—at least not through most egg banks or egg sharing programs like Cofertility. The FDA and most clinics require that family history to approve someone as a donor. Without it, clinics can’t properly assess inherited health risks, which raises medical and ethical concerns for everyone involved.

This can be disappointing, especially if you’re otherwise in good health and motivated to help another family. 

Are there any exceptions?

There are a few situations where adopted people can donate, but it depends on the circumstances:

• Open adoptions: If you have contact with your birth family or access to reliable medical information about them, you may be able to provide the necessary family history.
• Access to adoption records: In some states or countries, adopted people can request their original birth certificates or medical records. This may require a formal request through the state or adoption agency.
• Known donation with informed consent: In some cases, a known recipient—such as a friend or relative—may agree to proceed with egg donation despite the lack of biological family medical history. This usually involves a legal agreement where the recipient waives the right to detailed genetic history and acknowledges any potential risks. Not all clinics allow this, but some will accept it if both parties undergo legal and psychological counseling and the medical team signs off.

If you’re not sure how much information you have, it’s still worth reaching out. Some adopted donors find that they do have enough medical history to move forward after requesting records or talking to relatives. Others decide to explore options for egg freezing for their own use instead.

Why this requirement exists

It can feel unfair that being adopted—something you had no control over—could exclude you from donating eggs. But there’s a real reason behind the policy: it’s about protecting the health of the child who could be born from the donation, and ensuring that the recipient family has a clear picture of the potential genetic risks.

Donor-conceived children often want to know more about their genetic origins as they grow up, including health risks that might affect them. Having a documented medical history helps provide that transparency. Without it, future medical care for the child could be more complicated.

Clinics and egg donation programs have a responsibility to both recipients and potential offspring—not just donors. That’s why the requirements are as strict as they are.

What are your options if you can’t donate?

If you're adopted and don't have access to biological family history, you likely won’t qualify to donate your eggs right now. But that doesn't mean you're out of options entirely.

You might consider:

• Freezing your eggs for your own future use. With our Keep program, you can more affordably freeze your eggs with partnerships that lighten the financial load and ongoing support from our team.
• Exploring whether you can get more information. If your adoption was semi-open or records are available through your state or country, you may be able to gather enough information to meet donation requirements.
• Checking back in the future. Some people gain access to their biological history later in life, either through DNA testing, ancestry sites, or contact with biological family members. If that happens, you may be able to revisit the idea of donation.
  

The bottom line

If you’re adopted and don’t have access to your biological family’s medical history, you probably won’t be able to donate your eggs. That’s not a reflection on you—it’s a safeguard built into the process to protect intended parents and future children.

Still, your desire to help others grow their families is something to be proud of. If you do gain access to your biological medical history down the line, egg donation may still be a possibility. In the meantime, freezing your eggs for yourself is absolutely an option, and we’re here to support you however you decide to move forward.

If you’ve participated in our Split program, you’ve already gone through the hard part—completing your egg freezing cycle and donating half your eggs to a family who needed your help to grow. Now, your remaining eggs are yours to use if and when you’re ready. But what exactly happens when that time comes?

Here’s everything you need to know about what happens to your eggs after freezing, how to access them, and what to expect when you decide to use them.

Where your eggs are stored

After your egg retrieval, your eggs were vitrified (flash-frozen) in liquid nitrogen and transferred to long-term cryogenic storage. These eggs are stored with our storage partner, TMRW Life Sciences, using state-of-the-art technology, including:

• Digital labeling and RFID tracking to ensure precise identification
• Automated systems to reduce human error
• 24/7 monitoring and real-time inventory updates

TRMW has storage facilities across the country, including in New York, NY and Boulder, CO. Your eggs are being carefully monitored and protected, and you can request access at any time.

You own your eggs

From the moment of retrieval, the eggs that belong to you are exactly that—yours. You don’t need Cofertility’s permission or involvement to access them (though we always love hearing from our Members!). You’ll simply reach out to the storage facility or work with your clinic to coordinate shipping and next steps.

Your eggs are stored for free for 10 years as part of your Split program benefits. If you need more time beyond that, extended storage options are available directly with TMRW, or you can ship them to a storage facility of your choice. 

When you're ready to use them

Here’s how the process works when you’re ready to use your frozen eggs. Remember, egg freezing is the first part of IVF, followed by making and transferring embryos:

1. Choose a fertility clinic. This might be the same clinic where your retrieval took place, or a different one based on where you live now or your insurance coverage.
2. Coordinate shipping. Your clinic will request the eggs from the storage facility and handle safe transport to their lab.
3. Thawing the eggs. The clinic will thaw your eggs using a warming protocol that protects them from damage. Thanks to vitrification, thaw rates are high and most eggs do survive. Read more about Egg Freezing Thaw Rates. 
4. Fertilization and embryo creation. Once thawed, your eggs will be fertilized through ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), where one sperm is injected into each egg.
5. Embryo transfer. Embryos are monitored for development over a few days. The strongest embryo(s) will be selected and transferred to your uterus in a process similar to a pap smear.

While there are no guarantees, younger age at the time of freezing is associated with higher success rates. The number and quality of thawed eggs will influence how many embryos develop, and ultimately, your chances of pregnancy.

What it costs to use your eggs

While your egg retrieval and 10 years of storage were covered by the Split program, there are costs associated with using your eggs later on. These include:

• Shipping your eggs to your clinic: varies by distance and facility, generally $500–$1,000
• Fertilization and embryo culture with ICSI: $5,000-7,500
• Embryo transfer procedure:$3,000–$6,000
• Medication and monitoring: can vary widely, often an additional $3,000-5,000

These estimates are from 2025, and may change in the future. We recommend checking with your chosen clinic for specific pricing and asking if insurance or financing options are available.

The bottom line

As a Split Member, you've already done something incredible: you’ve helped build another family and preserved your own fertility in the process. When and how you use your frozen eggs is entirely up to you. Whether that’s next year or a decade from now, your eggs will be ready when you are.

If you have questions about retrieving your eggs from storage, choosing a clinic, or budgeting for your next steps, we’re here for you. Reach out anytime—we’re always happy to help you make the most of this powerful decision.

If you're considering freezing your eggs and are curious about our Split Program—but you're not a U.S. citizen—you might be wondering if you're still eligible. The short answer? Yes. You don’t need to be a citizen to participate.

Cofertility’s egg sharing program, called the Split Program, allows you to freeze your eggs for free when you donate half of the retrieved eggs to a family who needs help growing theirs. It’s a unique model that supports you in preserving your own fertility while helping someone else build their family at the same time.

We’ve had foreign graduate students, researchers, and professionals successfully participate in the program. But while citizenship isn’t a requirement, you do need to be physically located in the U.S. long-term in order to complete the process safely and successfully.

Here’s what that means—and what else to consider if you're applying as a non-citizen.

You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen…

Cofertility welcomes people from a variety of backgrounds, and citizenship status alone won’t disqualify you from joining the Split Program. Whether you're on a student visa, work visa, or living with friends or family in the U.S., you’re still eligible to apply, as long as you meet the medical, age, and health criteria.

…But you do need to be living in the U.S. during the process

While citizenship doesn’t matter, your physical location during the process does. That’s because the Split Program includes several steps that require you to be in the U.S. for multiple appointments over a period of time. These steps include:

• Screening and testing (medical, genetic, and psychological)
• A clinic consultation
• Daily hormone injections
• Frequent monitoring appointments
• The egg retrieval procedure
  

Altogether, this can take several months, depending on clinic scheduling, your menstrual cycle, or other factors. For that reason, you’ll need to be in the U.S. for the entire process, ideally with some flexibility in your schedule.

If you’re currently living abroad or planning to leave the U.S. soon, we recommend waiting to apply until you know you’ll be here long enough to complete the process.

What about visa status?

As long as your visa allows you to legally remain in the U.S. for the duration of the process, that’s generally not an issue. Many participants have gone through the program while on:

• F-1 student visas
• J-1 exchange visas
• H-1B work visas
• B-2 tourist visas, though this may require careful planning due to shorter durations

We don’t provide legal advice about visa compliance, so if you have questions about your specific status or restrictions, it’s best to check in with an immigration attorney or advisor before applying.

One important medical disqualifier to note

If you lived in Europe for more than five years cumulatively, or in the United Kingdom (specifically England) for more than three months between 1980 and 1996, the FDA considers you ineligible to donate eggs as an undisclosed donor. This guideline is based on concerns regarding potential exposure to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), also known as mad cow disease.

However, this restriction only applies to undisclosed matches. If you are participating in a disclosed match—meaning your identity is shared with the intended parents—you may still be eligible to donate, depending on the clinic’s specific criteria and approval.

It’s important to note that this rule is enforced by the FDA and followed across all U.S. fertility clinics, not just Cofertility.

A few other things to keep in mind

• Fluency in English is important for the screening process and informed consent. Clinics will need to ensure you fully understand the medications, procedures, and risks involved.
• Health insurance isn’t required—Cofertility covers the full costs of your retrieval, medicine, and 10 years of storage.
• Your eggs are always yours. Once your cycle is complete, your half of the retrieved eggs are stored for free for 10 years. You can access and use them at any time, regardless of where you’re living in the future.

The bottom line

You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen to participate in the Split Program, but you do need to be in the U.S. long enough to safely complete the process. As long as you’re physically present in the U.S. and meet the health and age criteria, you’re welcome to apply. If you’re unsure whether your timing or visa status makes you a fit, reach out—we’d be happy to talk through your specific situation and help you figure out next steps.

Egg freezing and donation are big decisions, and we’re here to support you no matter where you’re from.

For professional and elite athletes, performance is everything. Every training session, competition, and recovery strategy is carefully optimized to maintain peak condition. Egg freezing provides women an incredible opportunity to thrive in their careers without compromising their family-building dreams and many athletes wonder if undergoing fertility preservation will impact their performance, either in the short term or long term. The good news? With the right approach, you can prioritize both your career and your family-planning goals.

The egg freezing process & your body

Egg freezing is a multi-step process, with the most physically demanding phase often being ovarian stimulation. In general, here’s what you can expect from a typical egg freezing cycle:

Screening (1-3 days)

A comprehensive hormone and physical screening  is done prior to beginning the process. Screening includes hormone testing, ultrasound, and physical exam.

Hormonal stimulation (10-14 days)

‍Daily hormone injections encourage the ovaries to mature multiple eggs. You may experience bloating, water retention, and temporary shifts in energy levels. During this time, you’ll also attend regular monitoring appointments with your care team to ensure everything is progressing as expected.

Egg retrieval (1 day procedure, 1-3 day recovery time)

‍A short outpatient procedure is performed under light sedation to collect mature eggs. While minimally invasive, some athletes may need a few days to recover before resuming full training.

What to expect physically

Egg freezing is generally considered to be safe, but no procedure is 100% risk-free. While every body responds differently, here are some common side effects to be aware of:

Increased bloating & water retention

Temporary weight fluctuations due to hormonal stimulation can occur.

Fatigue & recovery

‍Some athletes report feeling slightly more tired during stimulation, though normal activity can usually continue.

Temporary training adjustments

‍High-impact workouts may need to be modified to avoid ovarian torsion, a rare but serious complication.

When can you resume training after an egg retrieval?

Most athletes can return to light training within a few days post-retrieval, with full intensity resuming in one to two weeks. The key is to consult with your care team regarding your unique body and circumstances, and to listen to your body in order to allow for proper recovery.

Performance & long-term impact

One of the most common misconceptions is that egg freezing permanently alters your body. However, once the hormone medications leave your system, your body returns to baseline function. There is no evidence that egg retrieval negatively affects long-term strength, endurance, or agility.

Balancing fertility & athletic goals

Egg freezing is a temporary process, but your athletic career and family-building plans are long-term. By timing the procedure strategically and working with professionals who understand your physical demands, you can take charge of your fertility—without compromising your performance.

Benefits of egg freezing for women athletes

Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their careers and their family-building goals without compromise. Women athletes face unique challenges when it comes to this, due to the fact that their career and their fertility are often peaking at the same time, leading to many athletes believing they have to choose one path or the other. Egg freezing is an incredible tool that has allowed countless women to live life on their own terms. At Cofertility, we’re on a mission to create a world where anyone who wishes to pursue egg freezing can do so freely, without barriers.

With our Split program, we give members the opportunity to freeze their eggs entirely for free when they donate half of the eggs retrieved to help another family grow. With our Keep program, members can self-fund their egg freezing journey at a discounted rate with access to our network of partners and perks. With both programs, members get access to our members-only community to connect with others going through the process at the same time.

To learn more about how Cofertility supports women athletes, visit leveltheplayingfield.co

To apply for our egg freezing programs, visit quiz.cofertility.com

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Family-planning decisions are deeply personal, and for women athletes, there are many added layers of complexity. From rigorous training schedules and competition seasons to the physical demands of maintaining peak performance, many athletes choose to delay family-building. Egg freezing is an attractive option for many, giving women athletes the gift of time while allowing them to focus on the demands of their career. However, navigating the process can be a challenge. If you’re in this boat — this article is for you. Keep reading to learn more about the ins and outs of egg freezing as a woman athlete, allowing you the opportunity to take control of your reproductive future without sacrificing your career goals.

Why should women athletes freeze their eggs?

It is well-recognized that female fertility declines with age, beginning in one’s early 30s and more rapidly accelerating at age 35. Both egg quality and quantity start to decrease, making child-bearing more difficult the longer we wait. Given that many athletes extend their careers well into their 30s, egg freezing provides optionality for future family-building to female athletes who are prioritizing their professional careers during their peak reproductive years.

How to schedule an egg freezing cycle as an athlete

One of the biggest concerns for athletes considering egg freezing is when to do it. The process typically takes about two weeks, during which intense physical activity is often prohibited. This can make it challenging for those in physically-demanding careers, such as athletes, to find time to schedule their cycle. However, with proper planning, freezing your eggs as a woman athlete is very possible. Some considerations are:

• Off-season planning: Consider scheduling your egg freezing cycle during the off-season. That way, you’ll have time to focus on your retrieval without the added stress of balancing your training and competition demands.
• Recovery time: While egg freezing is a minimally-invasive procedure, it’s normal to experience mild to moderate symptoms post-retrieval, such as bloating, fatigue, or cramping. Giving yourself ample time to rest is key — so be prepared to take time off to recover.
• Impact of hormone injections: The process of freezing your eggs includes taking a series of injectable hormone medications in order to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. When taking these medications, it is often advised to avoid high-impact physical activity, in order to reduce the rare-but-serious risk of OHSS. While most will be able to return to their full training quickly, it’s important to work directly with your care team on a plan to safely navigate cycling with your work schedule.

How to pay for egg freezing as an athlete

Having a plan for how you’re doing to pay for your egg freezing is an important planning step in your journey. A typical egg freezing cycle can cost anywhere from $11,000 - $15,000, in addition to storage fees. Considering that the majority of women athletes do not have access to fertility benefits, you will likely have to fund your egg freezing journey on your own — but you have options. Options like Cofertility’s Split program — in which members freeze their eggs entirely for free when they donate half of the eggs retrieved to a family that can’t conceive — help eliminate financial barriers while giving you the opportunity to help another family grow at the same time. Additional options include financing options through companies like Sunfish or using an HSA or FSA account.Give yourself the gift of optionsNavigating egg freezing as an athlete requires planning, but it’s an empowering step toward preserving future family-building options. If you’re considering the process, talk to a fertility specialist and map out a plan that works with your training schedule. Because every athlete deserves the ability to compete today—without sacrificing the family-building goals.

Maybe you’ve just begun to explore egg freezing or donation and heard about Body Mass Index (BMI) as a clinical measure of eligibility for the procedures. Or perhaps you’ve already applied to donate your eggs and were told you did not qualify on the basis of BMI. Wherever you’re at on your egg freezing or donation journey, it’s possible that your BMI may come into question. You may be wondering what one has to do with the other, and if this criteria is even legit. 

BMI is a tool that categorizes intervals of body fat based on a person’s height and weight, with the associated categories being “underweight,” “normal weight,” and “obese.” Labels we really don’t love…but are used by the medical industry nonetheless. In the case of fertility clinics, BMI is often used as a requirement for egg freezing and donation. Most clinics have set a BMI threshold, meaning women considered overweight or underweight are often disqualified from receiving fertility services without any investigation into the rest of their medical profile. Because Cofertility is a matching platform and partners with fertility clinics, their guidance is what informs our policy. 

Let’s dive into BMI as a health metric, why some clinics rely on it for fertility treatment eligibility (the TLDR: correlating anesthesia risks), and why its roots can be problematic. 

A quick primer on BMI 

The formula for calculating BMI is weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.

It has been widely used by medical professionals as a quick way to assess a person's overall health and risk of various health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Despite its imperfections as a metric (and the flaws of relying on any one measure to look at the big picture), historically, BMI has been used by the medical community to more easily identifying certain comorbidities.

Why fertility clinics take BMI into account

For better or for worse, fertility clinics — like other medical establishments — often look to BMI as one requirement when evaluating someone’s eligibility for egg freezing or donation. Here’s a bit more about the why.

What is the recommended BMI range for freezing or donating eggs?

First, let’s clarify what BMI requirements for egg freezing or donation even entail. They can vary by fertility clinic, but most criteria are based on CDC and WHO classifications of “normal weight.” At Freeze by Co, your BMI must be between 18-29 in order to qualify as a Split member — where you can freeze your eggs for free if you donate half of the eggs retrieved to another family who can’t conceive. If you feel like your BMI does not reflect your health, because you’re an athlete or otherwise, please send us a note. We also review lots of other health profile criteria as part of your application and understand that BMI is not always indicative of a person’s overall health.

If you’re a Keep member — where you can still freeze your eggs more affordably and keep 100% of them for your own future use — you may also be subject to similar BMI requirements as set out by clinic partners. It is worth noting that clinics’ BMI parameters for egg freezing may be more flexible than those for donation.

Does weight and BMI affect the retrieval cycle itself? 

It can. Probably the biggest reason fertility clinics are reluctant to conduct egg retrievals  on those outside the “normal” BMI range is that your BMI may affect your overall risk profile for the stimulation and procedure. Throughout the time that you are taking hormone stimulating meds, your doctor will monitor your ovaries through an ultrasound to measure follicle growth. Women with higher BMIs may have more abdominal tissue; thus, it can be harder for your doctor to visualize the ovaries and ensure that everything is progressing as expected. 

Further, the American Society of Anesthesiologists notes that a high BMI increases the risk of surgical and anesthetic complications. While some clinics are finding ways to safely perform the procedure under local anesthesia (eliminating many risk factors), fertility clinics don’t all necessarily have the same equipment you’d find at a hospital, and many are simply not comfortable with this risk for safety reasons. 

Women with very low BMIs may also be at risk of complications and side effects from ovarian stimulation, too. For example, some studies indicate that individuals with low BMI are at higher risk of developing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). 

According to Cofertility Medical Advisor, Dr. Meera Shah,"Research does suggest that obesity is associated with impaired fertility and decreased live birth outcomes with assisted reproductive technologies. Some studies have demonstrated a correlation with increased BMI and lower oocyte yield, mature eggs, and blastocyst development. Obesity may also increase procedural risks including anesthesia related complications and procedural complexity. From a clinical perspective, it is important to balance these risks with a woman's autonomy to preserve her fertility. It is important that this patient population seek extensive counseling regarding such risks and are referred to centers equipped with the resources to provide safe and compassionate care.”

Does weight and BMI affect egg retrieval outcomes? 

Maybe. A systematic review of 13 studies found that women with higher BMIs are less responsive to hormone stimulating medications. While these studies pertained to ovulation-inducing medications (like clomid) vs. medications specifically involved in egg freezing, it still indicated a potential need for higher total doses of follicle stimulating hormones for those with higher BMIs. 

Another large cohort study has shown that, relative to women of normal weight, overweight women (BMIs > 25) have fewer eggs retrieved per cycle. While we do have some data about the hormonal implications of very low BMIs — ASRM reports that very low BMIs can cause irregular menstrual cycles and may cause ovulation to stop altogether, impacting a woman’s fertility overall — evidence of the effects of low BMI on actual retrieval outcomes is more varied. We’ll continue to keep tabs on that data as it becomes available, but this heterogeneity may be due to smaller sample size of underweight groups or the influence of biological differences such as ethnicity (more on that below).

On the flipside, there is a single study on BMI and egg freezing (373 elective egg freezing cycles), which found that egg yield actually increased by 2% per increase of BMI measured. This study also illuminated the fact that the existing research on women with known infertility issues cannot be easily extrapolated to egg donors and freezers, because they are unique populations.

Does weight and BMI affect egg quality?

It can. Although there is not absolute consensus, some studies have shown that obese women can experience poorer egg quality. Because women are born with a limited number of eggs, the environment in which those eggs develop is critical. A study published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics stated that obesity impairs egg maturation. It can also induce elevations in insulin, glucose, or fatty free acids, all of which appear to impact the development of the egg. 

Another study done at Washington University in St. Louis looked at the effects of obesity on the egg quality of infertile women. They found:

• Oocyte quality: six studies found an adverse effect, one found no effect
• Fertilization: three studies found decreased rates, eight found no difference
• Embryo quality: two found decreased quality, two found no difference

As we review this study, though, we’ll need to remember that findings on infertile populations can’t necessarily be applied to egg freezers. Plus, fertilization and embryo quality have unrelated confounding factors like semen quality.

Why do you need a certain BMI in order to freeze or donate eggs? 

Most doctors set BMI parameters in response to data on outcomes and the complication risks shared above. In most cases, BMI limits are in place to protect your bodies and reduce the risk of complications. 

Also, when it comes to egg donation, specifically, since families needing egg donors have generally already been down a difficult, and expensive road, their doctors want to reduce any potential risks and increase chances of a successful retrieval. Given what you are putting your body through in order to stimulate and retrieve the eggs, this can be beneficial to all parties involved in the process. 

Why BMI can be a problematic metric

Clearly, there is a lot of contradictory research when it comes to BMI’s impact on fertility outcomes — our heads are spinning, too! Despite this, BMI is still widely used by fertility clinics to determine a woman’s eligibility for both freezing and donation. 

In recent years, more and more researchers and medical professionals have argued that BMI is a flawed method of body measurement. And while we need to comply with and respect the BMI parameters put in place by our clinic partners, we also have a few issues with BMI as a metric.

Looking at the full picture

As the Cleveland Clinic points out, BMI does not distinguish between excess fat, muscle, or bone mass. This means it is inaccurate in certain populations such as athletes (who have a lot of muscle mass) or those who are very tall or very short. Similarly, BMI does not provide any indication of the distribution of fat in the body. And we know that the location of body fat in someone’s body is an important variable in assessing their full health picture.

Because the freezing and donation processes follow similar steps up until the point of retrieval, the fertility clinic you ultimately work with will likely ask you about your BMI as part of the Split and Keep programs. We want you to be prepared, and while there is a push for clinics to evaluate BMI as part of the full picture, for our Split program in particular we do need to ask about BMI on our initial intake questionnaire. Reason being: we would hate for someone to spend valuable time and energy on the program’s full application, only to be told by a fertility clinic that they would not qualify for egg donation based on this metric. 

Reliance on BMI can further perpetuate racial inequities

Relying solely on BMI to assess health also has the potential to lead to increased racial bias. Although the BMI calculation was primarily based on White body types and not necessarily an appropriate measure for people of other ethnicities, Black and Latina women are more likely to face infertility than white women, and may benefit the most from fertility preservation.

Yet, because of BMI cutoffs, these populations face more obstacles when it comes to receiving fertility care. The prevalence of obesity is higher for women of color due to myriad social determinants of health and differences in body composition. Therefore, women of color are disproportionately impacted by BMI requirements. Obesity prevalence in the U.S. in 2020:

• 39.6% of white women
• 45.7% of Hispanic women
• 57.9% of Black women

This doesn’t mean that the potential egg freezing risks associated with BMI described above should be disregarded, but we should acknowledge that this data does have the potential to perpetuate racial inequities. The AMA itself even states that it has “issues with using BMI as a measurement due to its historical harm, its use for racist exclusion, and because BMI is based primarily on data collected from previous generations of non-Hispanic white populations.”

The need to preserve reproductive autonomy

If a clinic denies someone access to egg freezing services based on her weight alone, this essentially denies her the opportunity to preserve her fertility and her reproductive autonomy. Egg freezing may be even more important for people with high BMI, who are statistically more likely to struggle with infertility down the road. This can have devastating consequences for women who may want to delay pregnancy for personal or medical reasons, such as cancer treatment.

Insufficient data about BMI and egg donation

Ultimately, there is just insufficient data to make a conclusive assessment of the relationship between BMI and egg retrieval outcomes. And, when it comes to egg donation in particular, there are zero studies on the effects of BMI upon donation outcomes, since women with BMIs over 29 have largely been denied the opportunity to donate. 

So, how should we look at BMI?

The bottom line is that BMI evaluated in isolation does not provide an accurate picture of one’s overall health. And although we ask about our applicants’ BMI due to clinical compliance, we believe in improving accessibility to egg freezing for all. 

Despite being bound by clinical parameters for egg donation that we must screen for, we believe that BMI as a single measure should not disqualify someone from egg freezing or donation. Our hope is that fertility clinics instead consider patient health more holistically — in addition to taking BMI into account as one metric.

What industry governance *does* say

An ASRM committee opinion on obesity and reproduction, ASRM directly states, “Obesity should not be the sole criteria for denying a patient or couple access to infertility treatment.” Further, neither the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) nor the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) provide specific guidance around the use of BMI. In fact, ASRM has recently voted to adopt the new AMA policy urging that “the use of BMI be in conjunction with other valid measures of risk.” 

Our hope is that fertility clinics consider these messages in assessing a patient’s overall profile. This could look like counseling and support for women who may be struggling with weight-related issues, or the exploration of alternative methods for assessing fertility, such as ovarian reserve testing. 

Moving forward, we hope that more fertility clinics focus on providing evidence-based care that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. One thing we can all agree on: the outcomes of holistic healthcare will always eclipse those grounded in the use of a single number. 

What are your options?

If you’ve been told you can’t move forward with egg freezing or donation due to your BMI, we know how disheartening this must feel. But this does not have to be the end of the road for you.  

If your BMI is above the appropriate range, available data suggests that as little as 5%-10% weight loss can improve fertility outcomes. Notably though, in order for weight loss to be most effective, it must be gradual and sustained. If your BMI is below the appropriate range, ASRM recommends working with your doctor to understand the cause of the situation and develop a plan to correct it. 

At Cofertility, our mission is to make egg freezing accessible, but we never want to compromise the health and safety of our members. If you’re interested in our Split or Keep programs but have concerns about your BMI impacting your eligibility, we recommend that you reach out to your doctor to discuss further. 

In addition, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about our program qualifications. Even if you have to put your application on pause, we may still be able to help you get ahead of other requirements. And no matter what, we’ll be here for you as soon as you’re ready to move forward.

Today, more than ever, women are choosing to delay parenthood for various reasons, including focusing on career advancement, establishing financial stability, and finding the right partner. To help with this, many are turning to egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation. Egg freezing has grown in popularity, with a 46% increase in egg freezing cycles from 2020 to 2021 alone! 

If you’re considering egg freezing, you may be wondering: Is egg freezing tax deductible? Let's delve into this topic to provide some much-needed clarity.

The basics of egg freezing

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a procedure where your eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for later use. Because younger eggs are, on average, healthier, the egg freezing can increase your chances of conceiving a biological child in the future, even as your fertility naturally declines over time.

Despite the positive possibilities it offers, egg freezing is not an inexpensive procedure. The overall cost 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. In the US in 2023, on average, the process can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 per cycle, not including annual storage fees. Thus, it's only natural for individuals to explore avenues for financial relief, such as tax deductions.

Understanding medical expense deductions

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States, certain medical expenses are eligible for tax deductions. The IRS's guidelines state that one can deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of one's adjusted gross income for the year. So, if you have a significant amount of qualifying medical expenses in a year, you could potentially benefit from this tax deduction.

Egg freezing and tax deductions

Is egg freezing considered a deductible medical expense? The answer is complex and largely depends on your individual circumstances. As a baseline, the IRS has traditionally considered fertility preservation treatments, like egg freezing, to be tax-deductible only 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.

When it comes to egg freezing for elective, non-medically necessary reasons (such as delaying childbearing for personal reasons), the situation becomes more nuanced. And unfortunately, as of writing this article, the IRS has not issued definitive guidance on whether egg freezing for non-medical reasons qualifies as a tax-deductible medical expense.

Given this ambiguity, if you're considering egg freezing for elective reasons, it's highly recommended to consult with a tax professional. They can provide advice tailored to your specific situation and keep you informed of any changes or updates in tax law.

Employer benefits and HSAs

Another important aspect to consider is employer-provided benefits. Some progressive employers are starting to cover egg freezing as a part of their employee benefits package, in which case the question of tax deduction might be moot.

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you might be able to use these pre-tax dollars to pay for egg freezing. However, the rules surrounding these accounts are complex and constantly evolving, so you’ll want to check with your plan administrator or a tax professional to ensure that this is a viable option for you.

Freeze your eggs for less – or even for free – with Cofertility

Cofertility is a human-first, tech-enabled fertility ecosystem that provides people agency over if, how, and when they have babies — today or someday. We have two programs for egg freezers:

1. Our Split program offers women a chance to freeze their eggs for free when donating half of the eggs retrieved to a family who cannot otherwise conceive. If you qualify for the program and decide to donate half of your retrieved eggs, 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.
2. Our self-pay Keep program allows women to freeze their eggs and keep them all for their future use. Through Keep, we offer our members partnerships and discounts to lighten the financial load of egg freezing, as well as access to our member community. An important note: even if you do have insurance or benefits coverage through work, you’re still able to participate in the Keep program. We’ll work with you to make sure all of your care is handled in a way that you remain eligible for the associated benefits. 

The benefits of working with Cofertility include:

• Power of choice: Freeze your eggs more affordably or, if you qualify, freeze for free when you give half to a family who can’t otherwise conceive.
• Community: Our inclusive online spaces allow you to connect with others going through the process in our private online community.
• Compassion: We’ll always treat you with care, and our Split program gives you the opportunity to make someone’s family building dreams a reality.
• Data-driven: We provide you with trustworthy guidance and evidence-based research so you can make informed decisions about your fertility.
• Free egg freezing: Freeze and store your eggs for 10 years, entirely for free if you qualify for our Split program.

Ready to learn about more affordable (even free!) egg freezing with Cofertility? Fill out this quick quiz to learn about our accessible egg freezing options and see if you qualify for our programs — it only takes one minute.

Summing it up

Egg freezing is an empowering choice for those who want to preserve their eggs for future use. However, its high cost can be a barrier. While certain tax deductions may apply for medically necessary procedures, the applicability of tax deductions for elective egg freezing is less clear. You’ll want to seek personalized advice from a tax professional to understand your options fully. 

In the quest to make egg freezing more accessible, every avenue of financial relief counts. As the conversation surrounding egg freezing continues to evolve, so too may the tax implications. It’s an ever-changing landscape that we’ll be keeping a close eye on moving forward. 

Exactly what happens during the egg donation procedure, anyway? You’re excited about Cofertility’s Split Program, where those qualified get to freeze their  eggs for free when they donate half to a family that can’t conceive. Still, you're unsure about one thing — the egg retrieval procedure itself. You want to understand what goes into maturing more eggs, and how those eggs will be retrieved. It’s a big deal — we get it!

We outlined all the details about what to expect during the procedure—including the protocol leading up to your retrieval. The stimulation and retrieval process is the same as what takes place during egg freezing or IVF. Use this guide to get a glimpse into and help you navigate the process. 

How the egg donation process begins

At the start of your cycle, there are many tiny follicles with the potential to produce mature eggs. A follicle is a fluid-filled sac that continues to grow while the contained egg matures.

Usually, one follicle takes the lead. It grows faster than the rest, maturing before the others can. Once the egg inside fully develops, the follicle ruptures, releasing the egg during ovulation. This halts the other egg follicles in their tracks and never gives the immature eggs inside these follicles a chance to develop. These eggs are lost each month. 

If a woman is not pregnant, the cycle restarts with a new batch of potential follicles. But with the aid of certain medications, doctors can help ensure that many - not just one - follicles mature at the same time. 

The stimulation process

While the medications prescribed may be a little different for every cycle, most protocols to stimulate the ovaries during the egg donation are designed to do the following: 

1. Shut it down. Doctors will prescribe birth control or a progesterone-only pill to  shut your ovaries down for a couple of weeks before your cycle begins. This sets the stage for fertility drugs and makes it easier to control your ovaries' response to those meds. 
2. Stim it up. When it's time to start the cycle, your doctor will prescribe medication to stimulate your ovaries. These drugs are similar to hormones that your body already makes, but in higher amounts. One of these hormones produced by the body is the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), while the other is the luteinizing hormone (LH). Your doctor may prescribe medication similar to either of these, or a combination of the two. These medications are injectables, but you’ll receive proper training from your clinic before you have to give your first dose at home. You’ll need to take these injections once or twice a day for about two weeks. 
3. Ongoing check-ins. During the two weeks that you’re taking these medications, the doctor will continually monitor your progress. Blood work will help monitor your estrogen levels while a vaginal ultrasound will be used to view follicle growth. These monitoring visits will help your doctor decide if and how to adjust your medication doses. If you've never had a vaginal ultrasound, it may sound a little scary, but the probe is slightly bigger than the size of a tampon. It’s totally comfortable, but it shouldn’t hurt. 
4. Prevent Ovulation. Once your follicles reach a certain size, or your estrogen reaches a certain level, your doctor may start you on a medication to prevent premature ovulation. This medication is also done via injection and, if necessary, will be added to your daily routine. 
5. Go time. Once the doctor decides that your follicles are ready for retrieval, you'll take what's known as a “trigger shot.” This injection will help the growing eggs mature and prepare them for retrieval.
6. The egg retrieval. This is the only real “procedure” - the retrieval will be done outpatient (at the clinic, not the hospital) and will be done within 30 minutes. Your doctor will use a vaginal ultrasound with a needle attached. The needle will be guided into your ovary and used to aspirate the fluid in each follicle. With this fluid, will come eggs that can be used to create embryos. You will be under light anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing and you will be provided medication to help you avoid any discomfort during or after the process. 
7. Recover. Right after the procedure, you may feel a bit foggy. The clinic will give you time to rest and your doctor will likely reiterate that you'll also need to take it easy for the next day or two. Physically, you can return to work or school the following day, but if you have the flexibility, you may want to take a day or two off to relax.

A highly-skilled clinical team will guide you through each of these steps in the egg donation process. Importantly, this team will help ensure that you don't develop  any issues, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is when your body responds too actively to the fertility medication and produces too many eggs. If you have symptoms of OHSS, these usually will resolve after a couple of weeks, says the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

Navigating with ease

If you’re considering the Split program, remember that while you may be new to the process, your team is not. Your doctors and nurses (and Confertility’s community) will guide you every bit of the way and answer any questions you may have.

Freezing your eggs can be a major expense. With most clinics and egg freezing companies, the cost of freezing your eggs can run between $10,000 - 20,000, including upfront consultation costs and the retrieval process. Once the retrieval is complete, you can expect to pay an additional storage fee, which ranges depending on the clinic or facility. 

We believe the best time to freeze your eggs is when you can least afford it. While we provide more affordable — even free! — egg freezing options, if you do not qualify for our Split program, where you can freeze your eggs for free when you give half to another family who can’t conceive, we’ve still lightened the financial load of egg freezing with partnerships and discounts as part of our Keep program. That said, we always recommend taking a closer look at the fine print of your health insurance policy to see what you’re entitled to.

As of June 2022, there are 20 states in the US that have laws on the books requiring health insurance companies provide some type of coverage for infertility. However, for those looking to be proactive about their fertility and freeze their eggs without an infertility diagnosis, coverage is even more sparse.

In a 2020 study tracking the coverage of employer sponsored fertility benefits, Mercer discovered that just 42 percent of employers with 20,000 or more employees provide coverage for IVF. Unfortunately, those numbers drop significantly for those looking to help offset the cost of proactive egg freezing, with just 19 percent of employers in that same size employee pool providing coverage. 

If you don’t live in a state with mandated fertility coverage (or work for one of the 19 percent of large companies that include egg freezing as part of their benefit package) there are a few things you need to know about how your health insurance policy stacks up when it comes to freezing your eggs. 

Your health insurance may cover some costs

According to the journal Dovepress, the process of freezing your eggs is called vitrification. There are several steps involved in completing the vitrification process. While your insurer may cover parts of this process (like some basic blood work) other parts may require you pay out of pocket (like the cost to store your eggs after they’ve been frozen). 

• Consultations: You will likely have a sit down meeting with your doctor to discuss your fertility plans. If your insurance covers fertility procedures like having your eggs frozen, your insurer may cover these types of visits in full. If they're not covered you may need to foot the bill for a portion of the visit like a co-pay.       
• Blood tests and lab work: You’re going to have to have to undergo a few different types of tests throughout the process of freezing your eggs to monitor important things like the quantity and quality of your eggs (ovarian reserve testing), as well as an  ultrasound of your ovaries (to check their function), and screens that will confirm your overall health (which include a variety of tests including routine lab work like a Complete Blood Count). 
• Medications: Typically your doctor will prescribe synthetic hormones to help manage your ovulation. There are a few different different types of medication used, depending on what stage of the process you're in, including drugs that can help your ovaries produce multiple eggs ahead of the retrieval and ones that will prevent premature ovulation so that you and your medical team can get the timing of your retrieval just right.      
• Retrieval: Once it's time for your egg retrieval, you'll do this on-site as an outpatient procedure where you go home the same day. You'll be under anesthesia for this procedure, requiring the expertise of a few different medical professionals.   
• Storage fees: After your eggs have been successfully retrieved they will need to go into storage. Depending on the type of facility you used for your retrieval, this may be handled by them or taken care of by a third party.

Questions to ask your insurer

To get the best picture of what your insurance covers when you freeze your eggs you should call your benefit hotline to ask a few key coverage questions like: 

• Are all of my medical consultations covered, especially if I meet with a few different facilities before choosing one?
• Do I have to have a diagnosis or preexisting condition to have any portion of freezing my eggs covered?
• How does the coverage for freezing my eggs factor into my lifetime limit for fertility treatment? 
• Does my coverage change depending on whether the retrieval was successful? 
• Will you cover any of the ongoing costs of freezing my eggs (like storage) and is there a time limit on how long that coverage lasts?
• What are my coverage options if I decide to use my eggs later on?

Making freezing your eggs more affordable

Through our Split program, members are able to freeze their eggs for free when they give half to another family in need of donated eggs. This could include LGBTQ+ parents, couples with infertility, or those with other fertility-impacting medical conditions. 

If you’d rather keep all of the eggs from your retrieval, our Keep program still offers a more affordable way of freezing your eggs when your insurance won’t cover the total cost. Depending on where you live, some of the benefits of Keep may include lower medication costs, egg storage fees, and discounted consultations discounts. 

Summing it up

Through most avenues, egg freezing can be pretty cost prohibitive. We’re excited to change this, while supporting reproductive choice for all women and helping intended parents seeking egg donation to help complete their families.  

As women, we are often tasked with making complex decisions about our bodies, our health, and our future. Among the myriad of choices, one of the most significant is the decision of whether or not to freeze our eggs. But once you've made the decision and plan to go through the process, you now may be wondering, "What exactly happens to my eggs after I freeze them? Where do they go? How long can they remain frozen?"

Egg freezing, also called oocyte cryopreservation, offers a chance to focus on other stuff now while planning for your future family. But how does it work, and what happens to your precious eggs once they are safely frozen? Let's delve into this fascinating, sometimes bewildering world of fertility preservation.

The egg freezing process: a quick recap

Before we venture further, let's refresh our understanding of the egg freezing process. It starts with hormone injections that stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then retrieved through a minor surgical procedure, and once retrieved, they are immediately frozen in a state-of-the-art laboratory. Following the retrieval and freezing process, your eggs are stored in a secure and carefully monitored cryo-storage facility. 

Egg freezing and preservation

Vitrification is a newer and more effective method of freezing eggs that has largely replaced older methods such as slow freezing. With vitrification, eggs are quickly frozen using a high concentration of cryoprotectants and then plunged into liquid nitrogen for storage. This process creates a glass-like state that preserves the eggs in a nearly perfect condition. In fact, vitrification ensures a very high rate of survival of the eggs, typically 95% or above.

Compared to slow freezing, which can damage the eggs and reduce their viability, vitrification has a higher success rate of producing healthy embryos for later use. It has become the preferred method of egg freezing for most fertility clinics and has allowed more patients to successfully preserve their fertility.

If you have any doubts about your clinic, you can ask them what type of method they use for egg freezing. It's important to do your research and choose a reputable fertility clinic with experience in vitrification if you're considering egg freezing.

Long-term storage and monitoring

Once the eggs are frozen, they are stored in liquid nitrogen. Some clinics keep those frozen eggs stored at an onsite lab, but in most cases they are shipped to an offsite facility. As soon as you’re ready to use them, they can be safely shipped back. 

In either case, the frozen eggs' care doesn't end at storage. They are monitored regularly to ensure the liquid nitrogen levels remain constant, and the facility's temperature control and security systems are working correctly. A well-maintained facility prioritizes meticulous record-keeping, tracking the storage duration and any other pertinent details about each egg. 

Cofertility members can take advantage of our partnership with TMRW Life Sciences, a fertility technology company that has developed the world's first automated solution for storing and managing frozen eggs and embryos. 

TMRW's technology platform digitally identifies, tracks, monitors and stores patients' frozen eggs and embryos with safety, accuracy, efficiency and transparency. TMRW's platform sets a new standard of care by reducing potential points of failure by 94% compared with manual systems.

So what is TMRW doing differently? 

• Digital labeling - instead of handwritten labels, TMRW uses digital labeling and RFID tracking. With this tracking system, clinics always know exactly where your eggs and embryos are and can easily find them when you’re ready to use them.
• Automated management - instead of relying on manual processes, TMRW has a new fully-automated digital system that helps eliminate 94% of potential failure points
• Real-time inventory - TMRW has gone the extra mile by creating a 24/7 cloud-based monitoring system with real-time inventory updates to provide new levels of safety, transparency, and peace of mind. 
• Active monitoring - TMRW provides 24/7 digital monitoring (thousands of daily checks!) and expert human oversight to identify potential issues before they become a problem.

Will my eggs survive the thaw?

Several factors can impact the success of egg thawing, including your age when the eggs are frozen, the number and quality of the eggs, the technique used to freeze the eggs, and the quality of the clinic’s laboratory. 

The quality of the eggs is also a crucial factor in egg thawing. Good quality eggs have a higher chance of survival and fertilization. However, even with good quality eggs, there is no guarantee of success, and the process may need to be repeated to achieve pregnancy.

If and when you decide to use them

When you decide the time is right to use your frozen eggs, just let the storage company know you are ready and they will ship them to your fertility clinic. Remember, if you freeze your eggs with Cofertility you get 10 years of free storage and can get your eggs at any time. From the time your eggs are retrieved they belong only to you. You have the rights to get them from storage directly, and you don’t need to inform the Cofertility team (although we always love hearing from our Split Members!). 

Once the eggs arrive at your fertility clinic, they are thawed in the lab using a warming solution. The eggs will then need to be fertilized with sperm and grown into embryos. The surviving eggs are then fertilized using a process called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into each egg.

After fertilization, the resulting embryos are monitored for a few days as they begin to develop. The most viable embryos are then transferred to your uterus in a procedure similar to a pap smear. If successful, the embryo implants in your uterus and grows, leading to pregnancy.

Generally, the younger you are when freezing your eggs, the better the chances of success. Eggs frozen in your late 20s or early 30s have a higher chance of survival and successful fertilization compared to those frozen in your late 30s or 40s.

If you froze your eggs as part of our Split Program

If you are a Split Member, the cost of the egg retrieval and 10 years of storage is completely covered. However, you are responsible for the cost of moving the eggs out of storage and having them fertilized and transferred. These costs vary greatly across the country, but generally you can expect:

• Shipping your eggs to your clinic: varies by distance and facility, generally $500–$1,000
• Fertilization and embryo culture with (ICSI): $5,000-7,500
• Embryo transfer procedure:$3,000–$6,000
• Medication and monitoring: can vary widely, often an additional $3,000-5,000

Read more in: Split Member Guide: What To Do When You’re Ready To Use Your Frozen Eggs

If you decide NOT to use them

What if, down the line, you decide not to use your eggs, or you have more than you need? 

One study of egg freezing patients at UCSF found that 89% believed they would be glad they froze their eggs, even if they never used them to conceive a child. So if you don't end up needing your frozen eggs down the line, there are a few options for what to do with them.

• Keep them in storage. Most storage facilities offer long-term storage options (our partnership with TMRW includes plans up to 10-years long), allowing you to keep your eggs frozen for as many years as  necessary. This may be a good option if you're not yet ready to use the eggs but want to keep them as a backup plan.
• Donate the eggs to someone else who may need them. Egg donation is a process of donating eggs to another person or couple who needs them, such as LGBTQ+ families or those suffering from infertility. This can be a wonderful gift for those who may not be able to have a child otherwise. If you go through our Split program, you will have already been cleared as a donor and can easily donate these additional eggs. If you’re not part of the Split program but think you may be interested in this down the line, talk to your doctor as they may be able to do some additional donor-related screening during your egg freezing process. 
• Dispose of them.  If you decide that you no longer need your frozen eggs and don't want to continue storing them or donate them, simply request that they are disposed of by the clinic or storage facility.
• Donate to science. Many research studies rely on donated eggs to investigate new techniques and treatments for infertility. Ask your clinic if this is an option.

Emotional considerations

Aside from the practical aspects, it's important to acknowledge the emotional journey involved in egg freezing. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions – relief, hope, anxiety, or even sadness. Know that these feelings are common and valid. Don't hesitate to seek support, be it from a trusted friend, family member, a professional counselor, or the Cofertility community.

Summing it up

The journey of your eggs from freezing to potential future use is complex and exciting, underscored by sophisticated science and meticulous care. Deciding to freeze your eggs can be an empowering choice, giving you autonomy over your fertility and future family planning. Knowing what happens to your eggs after freezing them can provide comfort and clarity as you navigate your fertility journey.

In the end, egg freezing is an investment in your future, offering an opportunity to expand your family when the time is right for you. It's a testament to the advancements in reproductive science and a tool for you to take control of your fertility. Trust in the process, seek support when needed, and above all, know that your choices are valid, and your feelings are heard. After all, the journey to parenthood, in whatever form it takes, is a voyage of hope, love, and extraordinary potential.

If you’re ready to freeze your eggs, we’re here to help. Reach out or learn more about our Freeze program.

Read more:

• Egg Freezing: How Long Can My Eggs Be Stored?
• Egg Freezing Thaw Rates
• When Should I Freeze My Eggs?
• What To Do When You’re Ready To Use Your Frozen Eggs

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Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation or fertility preservation, is a process where they stimulate the follicles in the ovaries and retrieve unfertilized eggs to preserve them for future use. While egg freezing has taken off in recent years, the cost of the procedure can be a significant barrier for many. Why is egg freezing so expensive and what are your options? Let’s dive in.

So how much does egg freezing really cost?

The question of how much does it cost to freeze your eggs will come down to a few factors. These include the clinic, your geography, and how long you keep the eggs in storage. On average, egg freezing patients will spend $30,000 - $40,000 on treatment and storage. 

Let’s look at one case of a 23-year old egg freezer whose insurance did not cover the procedure. Here’s what she paid out of pocket at a New York City clinic:

Fertility workup and blood work - $1,500

Monitoring, blood work, and ultrasound - $2,500

Medications - $4,479

Oocyte retrieval, anesthesia, egg freezing - $15,650

One-year of egg storage-  $1,500

Total - $22,629

This specific patient retrieved 34 eggs, which gives her a good chance at a live birth if she uses those eggs down the line. But most people don’t have an extra $20,000 laying around.

But why is egg freezing so expensive?

One major reason for the high cost of egg freezing is the expense of the technology and equipment required for the procedure. The process of freezing eggs involves:

• Anesthesia and the cost of an anesthesiologist at your egg retrieval
• An operating room and equipment for the egg retrieval
• A freezing process called vitrification, which requires specialized equipment and materials
• A cleanroom IVF laboratory with good air quality
• Safe gamete storage with backup generator in case the power goes out

There’s also a high cost for the people who make egg freezing possible. Reproductive endocrinologists – also known as fertility doctors – make between $236,472 and $315,827 a year according to Salary.com. And anesthesiologists make between $359,300 and $470,200. There are also embryologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and patient coordinators. All these specialists go to school for years and have specific training to ensure the process is successful and safe. 

Another reason for the high cost of egg freezing is the cost of the medication used during the process. The medication used to stimulate the ovaries in preparation for egg retrieval can be quite expensive, and the cost of these medications varies depending on dosages you are given and your insurance coverage.

According to the GoodRx list price index, the list price for drugs used in egg freezing has increased 50% from 2014 to 2020. There are several medications used to stimulate your eggs during egg freezing: Gonal-F, Menopur, and Follistim AQ. And they are all brand drugs without a generic option… meaning the manufacturer gets to set whatever price they want.

Lastly, egg freezing is so expensive because most health plans don’t cover it. Health insurance companies have a lot of leverage; and if they’re good at one thing, it’s negotiating prices. 

How can I get more affordable egg freezing?

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you’re in the right place. Cofertility was founded to reshape the cost structure of egg-freezing, specifically through our Freeze by Co platform.

We have discounts with clinic partners, egg storage facilities, and pharmacies that we pass along to our members. Also, our members get access to our active online community, where you can connect openly with others freezing at the same time.

We stand for choice and offer two accessible programs:

• With our Split program, those who qualify can freeze their eggs for free when you give half of the eggs retrieved to a family who can’t otherwise conceive, including couples with infertility, gay dads, and more. 
• Those in our Keep program can freeze their eggs and store them all for their own later use, while taking advantage of discounts throughout the process to lighten the financial load. 

Summing it up

If you want children someday, egg freezing may help keep that option on the table. But egg freezing can be an expensive process. That’s because of the cost of the technology, equipment, and people required, as well as the cost of medication. Cofertility can help make your egg freezing journey more affordable – or even free. Take this 1-minute quiz to see which programs you qualify for!

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a procedure that allows women to retrieve eggs when they are most healthy and have them for use later in life. The process of freezing eggs involves a series of steps, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and cryopreservation. One of the most common questions that women have about egg freezing is whether or not it is painful. In this article, we’ll review all your questions about the egg freezing process and pain.

Egg freezing shots

The first step in the egg freezing process is ovarian stimulation, which is done using fertility medications. These medications are designed to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than the single egg that is produced during a typical menstrual cycle. These medications are typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) using a small needle. The shots themselves aren’t pleasant, but they’re quick. 

Some women may have a higher pain tolerance than others and some may have more discomfort than others. I personally have a really low pain tolerance, so I was nervous about the shots. But the process was super manageable, and the pain was not as bad as I thought it would be. Here’s what helped for me:

• Icing the spot for a few minutes to numb the area
• Laying down during the process
• Having my husband give me the shots instead of doing them myself
• Remind myself that “you have to want it more than you’re afraid of it”
• Having a good show and some chocolate ready for right after 

After a few days of injections in the same area, you may find some bruising. The bruising is usually normal and should disappear within a few days. Most people also experience mild bloating during the process, but it is generally not considered to be painful.

Vaginal ultrasounds

During the egg freezing process, you will get to know “Wanda” – what many in the fertility community affectionately call the ultrasound wand. Vaginal ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create images of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. This helps your doctor understand how your follicles are growing, and if the medications are working. 

The ultrasound wand (covered in a condom and gel) is inserted into the vagina, which can cause a feeling of pressure. The procedure itself is not considered to be painful, but some describe it as short-lived mild discomfort.

Blood draws

You will likely need several blood draws during your egg freezing journey to see how your hormones are responding. Blood draws, also known as venipuncture or phlebotomy, is a procedure in which blood is taken from a vein in your arm for laboratory testing. 

The pain associated with a blood draw is usually minor, and often described as a "sharp" or "stinging" sensation that lasts for a moment. The discomfort can also come from the tightness of the band that is often used to make the vein prominent and easier to find the vein.

Pain tolerance can vary from person to person, some people may experience a minimal discomfort while others may experience more pain. To minimize the discomfort during the blood draw, it's recommended to relax and breathe deeply during the procedure. If you have a fear of blood draws or needles, inform the technician who may be able to use a smaller needle or a different technique to minimize pain. And if you are prone to experiencing lightheadedness when getting your blood drawn, make sure to let your technician know. Asking if they can do the blood draw while you’re laying down rather than sitting up can make a huge difference!

The egg retrieval

The final step in the egg freezing process is the egg retrieval, where the eggs are then removed using a transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle. This is typically done under anesthesia or sedation, so you are fully relaxed during the procedure. Anesthesia is administered through an IV (intravenous) line so the amount of medication can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of sedation. Because it is not general anesthesia, you can breathe on your own and don’t need breathing tubes (phew!). Okay let’s break down this process and how painful it is:

• Getting the IV line: An IV line will be inserted into a vein, typically in your hand or arm. Some people describe a "sharp" or "stinging" sensation that lasts for a moment when the needle is inserted into the vein. 
• The egg retrieval: If you use anesthesia (and most people do), you will be unconscious and unable to feel pain or sensation during the 30-minute procedure. 
• Post-retrieval: After the egg retrieval procedure, it's normal to experience some mild to moderate cramping or bloating, similar to the discomfort experienced during menstruation. Your fertility doctor may prescribe pain killers, or give you over-the-counter pain medication to manage any discomfort.

Overall, the egg retrieval is not too painful. The bloating (and constipation) afterwards is considered the most unpleasant part, similar to period cramping.

What to do if you have a low pain tolerance

Even people with low pain tolerance can successfully freeze their eggs. But if you’ve had bad prior medical experiences, the entire process can feel daunting.

First and foremost, it is important to communicate this with your fertility doctor. Let them know that you have a low pain tolerance and ask about the level of pain you can expect at each step, and if there are safe pain management options.

There are a couple of other techniques to help make any pain more manageable:

• Therapy. If your low pain tolerance is rooted in medical anxiety, talk to a therapist. They can help you find techniques (or even medication) to help you go into the procedure with  more confidence.
• Practice deep breathing or relaxation techniques. Focusing on your breath and practicing mindfulness can help to distract you from the pain and reduce your perception of it.
• Ice packs. Applying a cold compress to the affected area before and after shots can help to reduce inflammation and numb the area.
• Acupuncture or massage. These therapies can help to reduce pain and promote relaxation.
• Music. I find it helpful to listen to music through headphones during any medical procedure (from a cavity filling to a blood draw). Music can help transcend you to a calmer place, and distract your mind.

Everyone's pain tolerance is different and what may be unbearable for one person may be manageable for another. Don’t ever be ashamed or embarrassed about having a low pain tolerance, it’s totally normal (and manageable!). 

Is egg freezing safe?

Yes - egg freezing is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure. However, like any medical procedure, there are risks.

Anesthesia, which most people opt for during the egg retrieval, is considered safe. Overall, there is only one death per every 200,000 to 300,000 cases. However, this number is even lower for women freezing their eggs. The biggest risk factors for complications from anesthesia are being male, being older, being obese, and having inpatient surgery – none of which are likely for egg freezers 

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is the most common complication of egg freezing, but it is also rare. About 3-6% of cases experience mild or moderate OHSS (headaches, fatigue, nausea, irritability, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, weight gain, and enlarged ovaries). Severe or critical OHSS is less common at 1–3% of cases and presents as ascites and pleural effusion, shortness of breath, dehydration, vomiting, oliguria, hemoconcentration, thromboembolic events, and massive ovary enlargement, which are potentially life-threatening. If you have any of those symptoms, it’s critical to reach out to your doctor ASAP. 

There are other risks such as pelvic pain, intraperitoneal bleeding, pelvic infection, damage to organs, and ovarian torsion. It’s best to talk to your doctor about the risks of egg freezing.

Summing it up

Egg freezing is considered to be a safe procedure, with most women reporting mild to moderate pain or discomfort. If you have any concerns about pain or pain management, it’s best to talk to your doctor up front. Let them know your concerns and ask about the level of pain you can expect at each step, and ask if there are safe pain management options. We are here, rooting you on!

One of my biggest regrets in life is not freezing my eggs in my 20s – it’s what led me to help co-found Cofertility and make this process radically more accessible. 

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a medical procedure that allows women to preserve their fertility for future use. Whether you're focused on your career, dealing with medical issues, or simply not ready to start a family yet, egg freezing can give you the peace of mind of knowing that you have options in the future. But if you're considering egg freezing, where do you start?

First things first: get educated

The first step towards freezing your eggs is knowing what you’re getting into. We have a wealth of knowledge here that you are free to access. I recommend starting with these articles:

• A Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Your Eggs
• How Much It Costs to Freeze Your Eggs
• The Egg Freezing Process: a First-Timer’s Overview
• A Breakdown of Egg Freezing Success Rates by Age

You can also talk to friends who have gone through the process, or join a Facebook group to hear from others in your shoes. 

What are the chances it even works?

We measure the “success” of egg freezing in a couple of ways. Since we don’t know if the eggs will turn into a healthy baby many years from now, the goal is to have a large, but safe, number of healthy eggs retrieved in a single cycle. 

Retrieving 10-20 eggs is ideal. That’s because for a woman under 35, she 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. That’s because egg quality (along with quantity) declines as we age. 

Read more in How Many Eggs Should I Aim to Freeze?

It's important to note that egg freezing is not a guarantee of future pregnancy, and success rates vary depending on various factors such as your age at the time of freezing and the quality of the eggs. 

Next steps: find the right clinic

Once you get a better idea of the process and decide if egg freezing is right for you, the next steps are to schedule a consultation with a fertility clinic. During this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your overall health, discuss your reasons for considering egg freezing, and review the risks and benefits of the procedure. They will also likely conduct some initial tests (like AMH) to assess the quality of your eggs and your ovarian reserve, which will give you a better idea of your chances of success with egg freezing.

If you work with Cofertility, we will help you schedule an appointment with one of our local partner clinics. If you participate in our Keep program, we can help you get the best prices on clinic fees, medication, and storage.  

Know your AMH

Research has found that AMH is a good predictor of the number of eggs retrieved during egg freezing, independent of age. Because of this, a fertility doctor will use your AMH levels (amongst other biomarkers) to determine the drugs and dosages during the procedure. 

In general, you can interpret AMH level this way:

• Above 1.0 ng/ml (nanograms per deciliter): Normal
• Below 1.0 ng/ml: Showing weakness in the ovarian reserve
• Below 0.5 ng/ml: Showing severe weakness in the ovarian reserve

But know that a very high level of AMH could be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which may require treatment and/or specific fertility medications or treatments. When AMH is over 5.0 nanograms per deciliter, for example, it’s worth addressing if there are other potential signs of PCOS. 

Figure out how you will pay for it

Egg freezing can be an expensive procedure, with costs typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 for one cycle plus the cost of storage. This varies widely based on the clinic and the medications your provider prescribes. But, there are ways to make egg freezing more affordable. Here are a few options to consider when paying for egg freezing:

• Insurance coverage: A minority of insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of egg freezing and/or medications. It's always best to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the procedure, and if so, what the specific coverage details are.
• Employer-provided benefits: Some employers offer coverage for egg freezing as a benefit to their employees. Check with your handbook or HR department to see if this is an option for you.
• Financing options: At Cofertility, we have financing partners which can make the procedure more affordable. 
• Donate half your eggs: Our Freeze by Co Split program allows you to freeze and store your eggs for free for 10 years, when you give half to a family who can't otherwise conceive.

To see if you're eligible for our Split program, take our quiz to tell us more about yourself.

Benefits of working with Cofertility

Cofertility is a human-first, tech-enabled fertility ecosystem that provides people agency over if, how, and when they have babies — today or someday. We have two programs for egg freezers:

The Split program, which offers women a chance to both freeze their own eggs and donate half the eggs to a family who cannot conceive otherwise. If you qualify for the program and decide to donate half of your retrieved eggs, 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. 

In our Keep program, you can freeze and store your eggs for your own future use, with lower prices on things like storage and medication – as well as our team’s support and access to our community.

The benefits for of working with Cofertility include:

• Power of choice: Freeze your eggs more affordably or, if you qualify, freeze for free when you give half to a family who can’t otherwise conceive. 
• Community: Our inclusive online spaces allow you to connect with others going through the process in our private online community.
• Compassion: We’ll always treat you with care, and our Split program gives you the opportunity to make someone’s family building dreams a reality. 
• Data-driven: We provide you with trustworthy guidance and evidence-based research so you can make informed decisions about your fertility. 
• Free egg freezing: Freeze and store your eggs for 10 years, entirely for free if you qualify for our Split program.

Ready to learn about more affordable (even free!) egg freezing with Cofertility? Fill out this quick quiz to learn about our accessible egg freezing options and see if you qualify for our programs — it only takes one minute.