The process
Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, identical to the early stages of IVF, followed by vitrification (rapid freezing) and storage rather than immediate fertilization.
Why timing matters biologically
Egg quality and quantity generally decline with age, which is why this procedure is most commonly pursued in a patient's early-to-mid 30s for elective preservation, though it's performed at various ages for different medical and personal reasons.
The storage commitment, honestly stated
Unlike a one-time procedure, egg freezing creates an ongoing relationship — annual storage fees continue until the eggs are used or storage is discontinued. Confirm your specific provider's long-term storage policies before proceeding.
See colombianivf.com for Colombia-specific egg freezing and storage program information.
The Takeaway
Factor the ongoing storage relationship into your decision, not just the one-time procedure — this is a longer-term commitment than most procedures covered across this network.