The practice of egg freezing, which has gained significant popularity in urban centers like Mumbai and Bengaluru, is now making its way to Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This shift is particularly driven by women with successful careers overseas who are delaying marriage due to their age and the difficulty in finding a suitable partner. To ensure they have options for motherhood in the future, many women are opting to freeze their eggs in cities like Chandigarh, Mumbai, and Bengaluru rather than choosing facilities closer to home in Lucknow or Noida.
A Growing Trend in Varanasi
In recent years, Varanasi doctors have noticed a notable increase in inquiries and consultations regarding egg freezing. Dr. Ritu Garg, Director of Santushti Hospital, observes a dramatic shift over the past two years, with numerous women seeking information about the procedure. This is a stark contrast to previous years when interest was minimal.
A Case Study
Dr. Garg highlighted a case involving a woman from Uttar Pradesh’s Sigra, who works for a multinational company in the United States. This woman opted for egg freezing six months ago to enhance her career prospects and ensure the future health of her potential children. Her choice exemplifies the growing awareness and adoption of this technology among ambitious women seeking to balance career aspirations with the possibility of motherhood later in life.
Financial Implications
The financial aspect of egg freezing is significant. The procedure costs approximately Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 lakh, with an additional annual storage fee of Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 to maintain the eggs in optimal conditions. These costs can increase depending on individual circumstances and additional related expenses. The substantial financial investment involved underscores the commitment and prioritization of future fertility planning by women considering this option.
The Egg Freezing Process
Egg freezing involves stimulating undeveloped eggs in the ovaries through injections. Once the eggs mature, they are retrieved via a minor surgical procedure, typically taking between three to six months. The mature eggs are then frozen and can be used for conception later, particularly for women who marry later in life (over 40). The technique, once popularized by celebrities, is now witnessing increased adoption in smaller towns and cities.
Societal Changes and Technological Advancements
This growing trend in Varanasi reflects broader societal changes and advancements in reproductive technology. It offers women greater flexibility in planning their families while managing their careers. The availability of egg freezing as a viable option allows women to exercise greater control over their reproductive timeline and create a path that aligns with their personal and professional ambitions.
Empowering Women’s Choices
The growing popularity of egg freezing in Varanasi and other emerging markets demonstrates a shift towards empowering women to take proactive steps towards their future. By choosing to freeze their eggs, women can pursue their ambitions with greater assurance, knowing they are safeguarding their reproductive potential for later in life.
Take Away Points
- The practice of egg freezing is expanding beyond major cities and reaching smaller towns like Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- The increasing adoption of this technology reflects broader societal changes and women’s growing focus on balancing career aspirations with future family plans.
- Egg freezing provides women with greater flexibility in managing their reproductive timelines, aligning personal and professional goals.
- While egg freezing offers a viable option, the financial implications of the procedure are substantial, necessitating careful consideration.
- The growing adoption of egg freezing in Varanasi highlights a trend towards empowering women to actively plan for their reproductive futures.