Is Social Egg Freezing Right for You? Your Step-by-Step Guide
Social egg freezing is an option for people who want to preserve their fertility for the future. It gives you the freedom to delay parenthood while still protecting the possibility of having a child using your own eggs later in life.
Author
Tassia O’Callaghan
Reviewed by
Kayleigh Hartigan
19 min read
Updated 16th September 2025
Treatment spotlight:
- Social egg freezing is an elective fertility treatment that helps preserve your chance of pregnancy using your own eggs later in life.
- It’s most effective when done under age 35, but many people freeze in their late 30s — often before trying to conceive. [1]
- The full process takes around 4–6 weeks, including hormone stimulation, egg collection, and freezing via vitrification.
- You may need more than one round to reach the recommended 15 eggs — and annual storage fees apply. [2]
- Success depends on age at freezing and number of eggs stored, not all frozen eggs will lead to pregnancy. [3]
- You can keep your eggs frozen for up to 55 years, and we’re here to help you find the right clinic, cost plan and care team to suit your path. [3]
- On average, one full cycle of social egg freezing, including medication and storage, comes to an average of £6,497 in the UK.
What is social egg freezing?
Social egg freezing is when someone chooses to freeze their eggs for non-medical reasons. Unlike fertility preservation before cancer treatment or surgery, social egg freezing is elective. It’s often chosen by people who aren’t ready to conceive yet, but want to improve their chances of pregnancy when using their own eggs later. [3]
Egg freezing involves stimulating your ovaries with hormones to produce multiple eggs, collecting them in a minor procedure (more on that below), then freezing and storing them for future use.
What are the reasons for social egg freezing?
Social egg freezing is for anyone who wants to preserve their fertility for later. This could include:
- People who haven’t found the right partner that they want to build a family with (if they choose to build a family with a partner).
- People who want more time to focus on their career, health, or personal goals. Egg quality and quantity decrease over time. Freezing your eggs at a younger age can offer more options later. [3]
- People who are not yet ready for children, but don’t want to miss the chance to use their own eggs. Even if you never use your frozen eggs, having them stored can feel like a safeguard.
- People concerned about declining fertility with age. Egg freezing can remove the urgency some people feel to conceive by a certain age.
The number of people freezing their eggs in the UK has risen dramatically — up 170% from 2019 to 2023, with the biggest increases seen in people aged 30–37. In 2023 alone, 6,932 egg freezing cycles were carried out. While some freeze their eggs for medical reasons, data from the HFEA (Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority) shows that at least 84% of egg freezing cycles are elective — reflecting growing interest in social egg freezing as a way to preserve fertility options for the future. [4]
Before you start treatment, remember:
- Social egg freezing is not a guarantee. It can improve your chances, but doesn’t ensure a future pregnancy. [3
- Egg quality matters more than quantity. Younger eggs tend to be of higher quality, so earlier freezing is often recommended. [3]
- You may need more than one round. Not everyone retrieves enough eggs in one cycle. [3]
- Storage fees apply every year. Be sure to budget for annual costs, which can range from £150 to £540 per year, from our research. [5]
- Most people don’t return to use their frozen eggs. A Belgian study found that less than a third of patients who froze their eggs returned to use them — and of those who did, only half used their eggs in treatment. While egg freezing can offer future options, it’s not a guarantee and shouldn’t be treated as an insurance policy. [6]
Social egg freezing: step-by-step
From your first appointment to the moment your eggs are stored for the future, here’s what the typical social egg freezing process involves.
Step 1: Pre-treatment
Time: Varies, but around 2 weeks
Location: Clinic
Before starting, you’ll need a few important checks. Your clinic will run blood tests and a pelvic scan to assess your ovarian reserve — the number and likely quality of eggs available for freezing. [7]
These tests include:
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) blood tests to assess egg count and hormone levels
- An Antral Follicle Count (AFC) scan to count how many follicles you have
- Screening for blood-borne viruses such as Hepatitis B and C
Your doctor will then explain your personalised treatment plan. A nurse will show you how to use the medication at home.
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation
Time: 2–4 weeks
Location: At home, with regular clinic monitoring
You’ll begin injecting daily hormones to encourage your ovaries to grow more eggs than usual. This process is essentially the same as IVF stimulation and is designed to give you a better chance of retrieving enough good-quality eggs in one go.
You’ll visit the clinic every few days for monitoring scans and blood tests. These help your team track your response and adjust medication if needed. Some people will also need medication before this phase to temporarily pause their natural cycle (called down-regulation).
Step 3: Trigger shot
Time: 2–4 weeks
Location: At home
When your follicles have grown to the right size, it’s time for what’s known as the “trigger shot.” This injection (typically hCG or a GnRH agonist) helps your eggs finish maturing so they’re ready to be collected. The timing needs to be precise — 36 hours before your procedure.
Your clinic will give you exact instructions and timings for when and how to take it.
Step 4: Egg retrieval
Time: 36 hours after trigger shot
Location: Clinic
You’ll go into the clinic for your egg retrieval — a short procedure under sedation. Using ultrasound guidance, your doctor will collect the mature eggs from your ovaries using a fine needle.
It takes about 15–30 minutes. After a short recovery period, you can go home the same day (you’ll need someone to accompany you).
You may feel tired or bloated afterwards — take it easy and rest up. Your doctor will let you know how many eggs were collected and whether another cycle is recommended.
Step 5: Freezing and onward storage
Time: Immediately after retrieval
Location: Clinic
The eggs that are mature enough are immediately frozen using a method called vitrification. This fast-freezing process helps preserve their quality until you’re ready to use them.
Your eggs are stored in liquid nitrogen, either at the clinic or in a specialist storage facility. You can store them for up to 55 years in the UK — as long as you renew your consent every 10 years.
Your clinic will guide you through storage costs and what’s involved in keeping your eggs safely stored for future use.
Treatment Essentials: Egg Freezing
Learn more about egg freezing: the steps involved, how much it costs, and whether it’s right for you.
Understanding social egg freezing success rates
Success rates for social egg freezing are still emerging, but we now have a clearer picture than ever before — and it’s crucial to understand both what current data shows and its limitations.
Between 2019 and 2023, the number of egg freezing cycles in the UK increased by 170%, with the sharpest rise among people aged 30–37. While this reflects a growing interest in social egg freezing, the number of people actually returning to use their frozen eggs remains low. A Belgian study presented at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) found that fewer than a third of patients returned to use their eggs, and only half of those who did went on to use them in treatment. UK trends are thought to follow a similar pattern. [4,6]
Success depends heavily on the age at which you freeze your eggs and how many are stored. Data suggests that people who thawed more than 15 eggs had significantly better outcomes — a 64% pregnancy rate and 45% live birth rate — compared to just 27% and 13% respectively among those who thawed fewer than 15 eggs. This is why some people may need more than one round to meet their goals. [2]
Ultimately, social egg freezing is not an insurance policy. Not all eggs will survive the freezing and thawing process, and not all will fertilise or lead to a successful pregnancy. But when done early and with the right support, it can preserve your chances of having a baby with your own eggs later in life. As more people return to use their frozen eggs in the years ahead, we’ll gain a clearer view of long-term outcomes — but for now, it’s about making an informed choice that suits your life stage and goals.
What happens after social egg freezing?
Once your eggs are frozen, you decide what to do next and when.
- You may do another cycle to freeze more eggs.
- You might take a break and wait until you’re ready to try for a family.
- Your clinic will charge annual storage fees for as long as you keep your eggs.
When you’re ready to try for a baby, your doctor might advise trying naturally first. If using your frozen eggs, the clinic will thaw your eggs, then fertilisation will be done (usually via ICSI, but sometimes IVF, if needed), and the embryos will be developed and transferred to your uterus. You’ll then wait about two weeks to see if implantation has occurred.
Unused eggs can also be donated (to another person, training, or research) or allowed to perish, depending on your consent.
While egg freezing is growing in popularity, it’s important to note that relatively few people return to use their frozen eggs — yet. This may be due to the recency of most cycles, or because people are still trying to conceive naturally first. [6]
What are the risks of social egg freezing?
Overall, social egg freezing is low-risk, but not risk-free.
- Emotional strain: The process can be demanding — physically, emotionally, and financially.
- OHSS: Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is a rare but serious response to stimulation drugs. [8]
- Side effects of medication: These include bloating, mood swings, headaches, and fatigue.
- Surgical risks: As a surgical procedure, egg retrieval carries a small risk of bleeding or infection.
- Thaw survival rates: Not all eggs survive the freezing/thawing process — around 80% are expected to survive, according to the most recent medical advice. [9]
- Age-related risks: If you use frozen eggs later in life, pregnancy complications (like preeclampsia or preterm birth) can be more common. [10]
- No guarantee you’ll use your eggs: Many people never return to their frozen eggs. Social media and wider society can sometimes make egg freezing feel like an expectation, but it’s not a path everyone needs to take. Deciding whether to freeze your eggs is personal — and talking it through with someone can help you feel confident in your choice. You can send us a message to chat with our fertility clinic expert if you’d like guidance on whether it’s right for you. [6]
Does the NHS cover social egg freezing?
No, social (or elective) egg freezing isn’t covered by the NHS. Because this is an elective process, you’ll pay privately.
If you’re undergoing medical treatment (like chemotherapy) that could affect your fertility, NHS-funded egg freezing may be available, but coverage for long-term storage varies.
How much does social egg freezing cost?
The cost of social egg freezing depends on several factors — from your treatment plan and clinic location to how many cycles you may need. On average, from our egg freezing cost research, one full cycle, including medication and storage, comes to an average of £6,497 in the UK. [5]
Many clinics offer package pricing, which can help you understand and manage costs upfront. These packages often include key elements like monitoring, retrieval, and freezing. However, there may still be additional fees for things like pre-treatment tests, medication, or annual storage beyond the first year — so it’s worth asking exactly what’s included.
If you choose to use your frozen eggs later on, there are extra costs to be aware of. A package that includes thawing the eggs, fertilising them with ICSI, and carrying out the first embryo transfer is usually around £3,713 (with a range of £2,100 to £6,600). Any additional embryos created as part of this process can then be transferred in future as frozen embryo transfers (FETs), each with its own cost. Most people will need more than one transfer before pregnancy is achieved, so it’s important to factor this in when planning ahead.
Egg Freezing Cost in the UK
Breaking down the cost of egg freezing, so you can be financially prepared.
How to choose a clinic for your elective egg freezing
Choosing where to freeze your eggs is a big decision — and one that goes beyond location or price. You deserve care that feels supportive, informed, and right for your needs and future plans. Here’s what to consider when shortlisting a clinic:
- Experience with social egg freezing: Ask how many egg freezing cycles the clinic carries out each year — and whether they regularly support people freezing for non-medical reasons. Clinics with more experience are more likely to tailor their approach to your personal goals and timeline.
- Clear and complete pricing: Check what’s included in the quoted cost. Some clinics bundle everything into a package, while others price each element separately. You’ll want to understand what’s covered, what’s not, and what might come later — like medication, storage, or thaw costs.
- Style of care: Some clinics feel more medical and fast-paced. Others take a slower, more holistic approach. Think about the kind of setting that helps you feel safe, informed, and empowered to ask questions. There’s no right answer — just what’s right for you.
- Communication and support: You should feel respected and listened to at every stage. From your first consultation to post-treatment check-ins, the right clinic will make time for your questions, explain things clearly, and support your decisions — without pressure.
- Transparency about outcomes: Ask about success rates and how those are calculated. While frozen egg success data is still developing, a good clinic should explain what realistic outcomes look like for someone with your age, test results, and egg count.
- Continuity of care: Find out whether you’ll see the same doctor or team throughout your treatment. Continuity can help build trust and reduce stress, especially if you’re planning future rounds or want support over time.
- Waiting times: Ask how soon you can begin. Some clinics book up months in advance, especially for egg retrievals or consultations with in-demand doctors.
- Flexibility with logistics: Consider how close the clinic is to home or work, especially during the stimulation phase when you’ll be visiting often. Also check how flexible they are with appointment times and how they communicate (email, phone, app).
- Community reviews: Reading honest experiences from others who’ve frozen their eggs at a clinic can help you understand what to expect — not just medically, but emotionally. Reviews reveal how supported people felt, how costs were handled, and what stood out — both good and bad.
- Values and inclusivity: Some clinics cater more to couples, while others are experienced in working with single people or LGBTQIA+ patients. Look for a clinic that aligns with your identity, values, and long-term goals — so you feel fully seen and supported.
Not sure where to begin? Our Clinic Match tool takes the guesswork out by helping you compare clinics that offer egg freezing based on your preferences, budget, and needs — including real reviews from people who’ve been there.
Find a clinic that understands you
Choosing where to have treatment shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Our Clinic Match tool brings clarity and tailored options to you.
Summary
Social egg freezing is a proactive way to preserve your fertility options — whether you’re focused on your career, waiting for the right circumstances, or simply want more choice down the line. It’s not about pressing pause on your life, but protecting your ability to decide when parenthood might feel right for you.
The process is medically well-established, but the decision to freeze your eggs is deeply personal. While it can offer peace of mind and extend your options, it’s important to go in with clarity about the potential, the process, and the costs involved.
Success depends on timing, individual response to treatment, and access to the right support. That’s why finding a clinic that feels like the right fit — not just in expertise but in how they treat you — makes all the difference.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to help you compare clinics, understand your options, and feel confident in the path ahead — whatever that looks like for you.
Social egg freezing FAQs
How many eggs do you need for social freezing?
Most experts recommend aiming for at least 15 mature eggs. This gives the best chance of a future live birth, though some people may need more than one round to reach this number. [2]
What age is social egg freezing typically done?
Most people who freeze their eggs for social reasons do so in their late 30s — with 38 being the most common age in the UK. But when it comes to the likelihood of a future pregnancy, age at freezing matters more than anything else. [1]
Research shows that freezing eggs before the age of 35 offers the best chance of success later. Eggs collected at younger ages are more likely to be chromosomally healthy and survive the freezing, thawing, and fertilisation process — increasing the chances of pregnancy when you decide to use them. [11,12]
That doesn’t mean egg freezing isn’t an option after 35 — but success rates begin to decline with age, particularly into the 40s. If you’re considering social egg freezing, it’s worth speaking with a trusted clinic early on to understand your egg quality, your timeline, and what might be possible for you.
Can I still conceive naturally after freezing my eggs?
Yes. Freezing your eggs doesn’t impact your ability to get pregnant naturally later. Some people never need to use their frozen eggs.
Read more in our guide: If You Freeze Your Eggs, Can You Still Get Pregnant?
What happens if I don’t use my frozen eggs?
If you decide not to use your frozen eggs — whether that’s now or years down the line — you have a few options, and the choice is entirely yours. [3]
You can choose to donate them to someone else who’s hoping to build a family but can’t use their own eggs. Not everyone will be eligible, and clinics have criteria in place, but for some, it’s a powerful way to support others on their fertility path.
You can also donate your eggs to training, where they’re used to help healthcare professionals improve their skills in egg thawing and handling — something that plays a critical role in making treatments safer and more effective for future patients.
Another option is donating to research. Your eggs could contribute to studies that improve fertility care, deepen our understanding of infertility, and support breakthroughs in reproductive science.
And if none of those feel right, you can ask for your eggs to be disposed of, which means they’ll be removed from storage and allowed to perish naturally.
Your clinic will walk you through these options when it’s time to make a decision — and nothing has to be rushed. Whatever you choose, it should reflect your values and feel like the right decision for you.
How long can eggs be stored?
Eggs can now be stored for up to 55 years in the UK — giving you as much time as you need to decide if, or when, you’d like to use them in treatment. [3]
To keep them stored long term, you’ll need to renew your consent every 10 years, using the forms your clinic provides. Your clinic is responsible for getting in touch when it’s time, and they’ll offer counselling as part of that process. It’s important to keep your contact details up to date so you don’t miss this reminder — without renewed consent, your eggs could legally be removed from storage.
You can choose how long to store your eggs based on your personal plans, not just your payment plan. But if storage fees aren’t paid, your clinic may be allowed to dispose of the eggs — so it’s worth staying across both the legal and financial timelines.
Can I freeze eggs if I’m single?
Yes — many people who choose social egg freezing are single — and that’s one of the key reasons this option exists. You don’t need a partner to freeze your eggs, and your relationship status won’t affect your eligibility for treatment.
Whether you’re focused on other goals, waiting for the right circumstances, or just want to keep your future options open, egg freezing can offer more choice later on.
Are there grants or loans for egg freezing?
While there aren’t currently any government grants for social egg freezing, many clinics offer payment plans or multi-cycle packages to help make treatment more manageable. Some employers also include fertility cover in their benefits — including egg freezing — and freeze and share programmes may be an option for those who are eligible and willing to donate some of their eggs.
We know it’s not always easy to find clear, honest information on costs. That’s why we’re here — to help you explore your options and make confident decisions that suit your life, timeline and budget. If you want to talk with our team about your options, feel free to use our WhatsApp chat in the bottom right corner or send us an email — we’d love to help.
Sources
1. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. What you need to know about our new egg freezing report. Publication date: 15 April 2025.
2. Kakkar P, Geary J, Stockburger T, Kaffel A, Kopeika J, El-Toukhy T. Outcomes of Social Egg Freezing: A Cohort Study and a Comprehensive Literature Review. J Clin Med. 2023 Jun 21;12(13):4182. doi: 10.3390/jcm12134182. PMID: 37445218; PMCID: PMC10342811.
3. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Egg freezing.
4. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Fertility treatment 2023: trends and figures.
5. Fertility Mapper. How Much Does Egg Freezing Cost in the UK? 1st July 2025.
6. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Few women return to their frozen eggs, European study suggests.
7. British Fertility Society. What exactly is Ovarian Reserve?
8. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Risks of fertility treatment.
9. NHS Cambridge University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust. Egg freezing – Information for patients. Approved 5 Sep 2024.
10. Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. What are some factors that make a pregnancy high risk? Last Reviewed 13 January 2025.
11. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Press release: Age is the key factor for egg freezing success says new HFEA report, as overall treatment numbers remain low. Publication date: 15 April 2025.
12. R.H. Goldman, C. Racowsky, L.V. Farland, S. Munné, L. Ribustello, J.H. Fox, Predicting the likelihood of live birth for elective oocyte cryopreservation: a counseling tool for physicians and patients, Human Reproduction, Volume 32, Issue 4, April 2017, Pages 853–859, https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dex008.