What is it really like to freeze your eggs in the UAE

Freezing eggs, medically known as oocyte cryopreservation, is now legal for unmarried women in the UAE since 2021. The process involves various steps, from blood tests and ultrasounds to hormone injections and surgical egg retrieval. The experience of undergoing egg freezing in Abu Dhabi, specifically at Art Fertility Clinics under Dr Laura Melado, was documented by a woman who felt younger than her age and did not prioritize childbearing.

The cost of egg freezing in the UAE varies among clinics, with packages ranging from Dh15,500 to Dh25,500, depending on the clinic and additional services. Post-procedure, you may need to pay for annual storage costs. Despite initial concerns, the process turned out to be less daunting than expected, particularly the daily self-injections which were painless and manageable.

Side effects such as bloating, headaches, and mood swings were common but temporary. The monthly cycle of egg freezing can be challenging for those with busy schedules, and attendance at multiple appointments is necessary. The retrieval surgery itself was quick and painless, performed under conscious sedation. Recovery was swift, with a week of rest and limiting certain activities post-procedure. However, the actual number of viable eggs retrieved was lower than anticipated, making future success uncertain.