This article is reviewed by Dr Chun-Kai Chen
Whether for career progression, not having met the right partner, or medical needs such as chemotherapy, egg and sperm freezing has become a smart and practical way for modern individuals to maintain flexibility in their life and family-planning journey.
In the past, “fertility preservation” was often seen as something only women needed. Today, with changing social attitudes and advances in reproductive medicine, more people now recognise that fertility preservation is for both women and men — because not only women freeze their eggs; men can freeze their sperm too.
Schedule a consultation with a Fertility Specialist
Egg Freezing: Step-by-Step Process
Modern vitrification technology used for egg freezing is highly advanced, with excellent thaw survival rates. The typical process includes:
1. Initial consultation and assessment
At your first visit to a reproductive centre, the doctor will conduct:
- A detailed medical consultation.
- Blood tests (AMH, FSH and other reproductive hormones).
- A vaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve and antral follicle count.
2. Ovarian stimulation
Hormone injections are administered for approximately 10–14 days to stimulate the ovaries, allowing multiple eggs to mature simultaneously.
3. Follicle monitoring
You will return for frequent ultrasound scans and blood tests to:
- Monitor follicle growth.
- Track hormone levels.
- Adjust medication dosage as needed.
4. Egg retrieval
When the follicles are ready, a 15–20 minute procedure is performed under sedation. A fine needle is used to retrieve the eggs through the vagina.
The procedure is painless, and most patients can go home after 1–2 hours of rest.
5. Freezing and storage
The embryologist rapidly freezes the mature eggs using vitrification, then stores them in liquid nitrogen at –196°C for long-term preservation.
Sperm Freezing: Step-by-Step Process
Compared to egg freezing, sperm freezing is simpler and quicker, but equally important.
1. Appointment and consultation
A session at a reproductive centre or sperm bank provides information on the process and requirements.
2. Health testing and infectious disease screening
Men undergo:
- Semen analysis.
- Blood tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B/C, and others.
These ensure safe and accurate storage.
3. Semen collection
Semen is collected through masturbation in a private room at the clinic, using a sterile container.
Tip: A 2–5 day period of abstinence is recommended for optimal semen quality.
4. Processing and freezing
The laboratory:
- Washes and concentrates the semen.
- Selects sperm with the best motility.
- Mixes the sample with cryoprotectant.
- Divides it into several storage straws or vials for freezing.
Sperm are then cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen.
How Egg and Sperm Are Stored
Both frozen eggs and sperm are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at –196°C.
At this temperature:
- Eggs do not age.
- Sperm metabolism is halted.
- Cells can remain viable for decades.
Reproductive centres typically provide:
- Formal storage contracts.
- Clear fee structures.
- Backup power systems.
- 24/7 alarm monitoring.
to ensure secure long-term preservation.
Estimated cost of egg and sperm freezing in Taiwan
Costs may vary depending on the region and medical institution. The following is a rough estimate for the Taiwan market (NTD converted to RMB and USD):
| project | Renminbi (CNY) | US Dollar (USD) |
| ovulation induction | Approximately 15,000 – 25,000 yuan | Approximately 2,000-3,500 dollars |
| Egg retrieval surgery | Approximately 15,000 – 25,000 yuan | Approximately 1,500 – 3,500 dollars |
| Embryo vitrification (basically one small freezing tube) | Approximately 1,000 yuan | Approximately 150 dollars |
| Cost of embryo cryopreservation (per year) | Approximately 2,000 – 3,000 yuan | Approximately 300-400 dollars |
| Hysteroscopy | Approximately 1,500 – 2,500 yuan | Approximately 200-350 dollars |
Note:
- The most variable cost in egg freezing is for “ovulation injections,” which vary depending on the individual’s required dosage.
- The prices listed above are for reference only. Prices may vary depending on exchange rates, hospital level, doctor’s fees, and the services selected. It is recommended to consult with the hospital or clinic first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Egg freezing is most effective before age 35. It is not recommended after 40 due to declining egg quality.
Sperm freezing has no strict age limit, but sperm quality usually decreases after 40, so earlier is better.
In Taiwan, there is no legal storage limit. Eggs and sperm can be stored indefinitely with ongoing storage fees.
Success depends largely on the woman’s age at the time of freezing:
– Under 35: 40–60% live birth rate
– Ages 36–39: 20–40%
– Age 40 and above: less than 20%
Egg freezing effectively preserves the age and quality of your eggs at the time of freezing.
Not guaranteed, but chances remain good. Although sperm motility decreases slightly after thawing, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) allows fertilisation even with only a few healthy sperm.
Look for:
1. Experienced reproductive specialists.
2. Good track record of egg and sperm freezing.
3. Certified laboratories (e.g., CAP, TQF).
4. Transparent pricing.
5. Supportive care and counselling.
Conclusion
Egg and sperm freezing give individuals more control over their future, providing a safeguard for fertility and helping people pursue personal, professional, or medical priorities without sacrificing the dream of a family.
With today’s advanced cryopreservation techniques, both men and women can confidently plan. If you are considering fertility preservation, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified reproductive specialist and explore the options that best fit your long-term plans.
Source of information:
This article is a translated version from the original Chinese version: 不只女性要冻卵！男性也能冻精了！2026 台湾冻卵冻精指南
- Chinese Society of Reproductive Medicine (2023). “Statistical Report on Assisted Reproductive Technology in China” . Chinese Journal of Reproduction and Contraception.
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) (2022). “Performing the embryo transfer: a guideline” .
- Internationally recognised IVF treatment standards and guidelines
- World Health Organisation (WHO) (1990 – 2021) . https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978920068315
- Zegers-Hochschild, F. et al. (2004). International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) world report: assisted reproductive technology 2004
Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are feeling unwell or have any medical concerns, please seek guidance from a licensed medical professional.
This article is reviewed by Dr Chun-Kai Chen
Dr Chen Chun-Kai is a reproductive medicine expert in Taiwan, currently serving as an adjunct attending physician at National Taiwan University Hospital and the director of Chi Hsin Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic. He holds a Master’s degree in Assisted Reproductive Technology from the University of Nottingham, UK, and was the first Taiwanese physician to complete PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) training at University College London, successfully introducing this technology to Taiwan. Specialising in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A/PGT-M), and infertility treatment, he is committed to the philosophy of “listening attentively and accompanying with all our might,” helping every couple realise their dream of having children.