Fertility Preservation in Today’s Family Planning

This article explores the key reasons couples consider fertility preservation, such as the impact of medical treatments, the pressure of age-related fertility decline, and aligning family planning with life goals. It also addresses common concerns—from cost and cultural perceptions to the emotional weight of such a decision.

We encourage couples to approach this conversation with honesty, set realistic expectations, and seek accurate information from qualified fertility centres.

Ultimately, start the conversation early and stay informed.

Understanding Fertility Preservation

Fertility preservation, or egg freezing, involves preserving eggs if the couple is unmarried or if they are married, their embryos by freezing them when they are ready to start a family. This method has become a hope for many who are not yet ready to conceive or who have to undergo medical treatments like chemotherapy or surgery.

For many, the decision to preserve fertility is very much driven by the desire to keep their options open.

Key considerations

• Medical treatments – Chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery can impact reproductive health. Freezing eggs or sperm beforehand can preserve the option of having biological children.
• Readiness – Some people know they want children in the future, just not yet. You're focused on career or financial goals first. Fertility preservation can help reduce the pressure of the biological clock.
• Personal circumstances – Whether waiting to stabilise married life or reaching personal milestones first, preserving fertility can align family planning with life goals.

For women, especially in their late 20s to early 30s, egg freezing has become a valuable tool that offers the possibility to use their younger, potentially healthier eggs when they feel more prepared to start a family.

Common Concerns Couples Have About Fertility Preservation

While fertility preservation has become a familiar and accepted practice in the world of reproductive health, there are still some concerns surrounding couples opting for this option. Though family planning is a deeply personal decision, societal expectations sometimes create pressure to follow a traditional path when starting a family.

For some, fertility preservation can feel like going against the grain. It may be negatively perceived as going against the tradition of starting a family or as an indication that couples may not be fully ready to become parents immediately. In some cultures or communities, the notion of "waiting" or preserving fertility can seem like a challenge to the natural progression of marriage and parenthood.

The procedure is often viewed as an expensive or unnecessary procedure, particularly for couples who are not facing immediate health issues. Hence, for some married couples, choosing this path can be seen as excessive, and in some cases, others might question why a couple would need to take this step when they haven't yet tried for children. Moreover, there is no guarantee of future pregnancy, even with egg freezing. Pregnancy success rates through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can vary based on age and health at the time of conception.

Another common concern is the fear of not wanting to acknowledge the possibility of present health problems that could impact their reproductive future. As a result, couples may avoid thinking about fertility preservation, even though it could be a helpful safety net.

Tips for Couples Discussing Fertility Preservation

1. Open Communication: This is key to overcoming concerns about fertility preservation, personal planning, and peace of mind. Engage in honest discussions about your reasons for considering fertility preservation, including career goals, financial readiness, and personal wish list. Ultimately, fertility preservation is a choice married couples should make together, based on their individual life goals and circumstances. By encouraging open, stigma-free dialogue, fertility preservation can be seen as an empowering option that offers greater flexibility and clarity in family planning.
2. Seek Professional Clinical Guidance: There’s a lot of advice online and in trying-to-conceive chat groups, but every fertility journey is unique. For accurate, personalised guidance, it’s best to consult a fertility specialist who can help you understand your options. At Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore, we conduct private open sessions on selected Saturdays for those who may not be ready to book a full consultation. Our Scientific Director leads these sessions and shares insights into the science behind fertility, including what happens in our embryology and andrology labs.
3. Set Realistic Expectations because while fertility preservation offers reassurance, it does not guarantee future pregnancy.
4. Plan Financially: Explore the costs involved and check if your insurance covers any part of the process.
5. Acknowledge the emotional aspects and support each other throughout the journey.
6. Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in fertility preservation and discuss them with your specialist.

Start Family Planning Early

Planning for a family isn't just about "when"—it's also about "how." By considering fertility preservation as part of your plan, you're protecting your options for the future, especially if age or medical factors may play a role in fertility outcomes.

While preserving eggs or embryos can't guarantee a future pregnancy, it can increase the chances, especially when done earlier, before fertility naturally declines with age.

Open, honest communication as a couple—and speaking with a fertility specialist—can help you navigate this choice with clarity and shared understanding and ensure you have the support and options you need to achieve your life goals.