New research shows that many women who have stored eggs but later decide not to use them—whether due to completing their family or a change of circumstances—want clearer information about their options. These include:
- Discarding the eggs – if you’re confident you won’t need them in the future.
- Donating the eggs – either to someone you know (like a friend or family member), or to women on our donor egg waiting list who are hoping to start a family.
Fair question — if you donate upfront, the recipient is responsible for all associated costs.
Legally, the government must remain neutral, as any involvement could be seen as an endorsement.
That said, some interest groups are actively lobbying for a change in the law. We’ll share any updates as they happen.
One of my patients froze her eggs at 34, as she was single at the time and didn’t see a partner on the horizon. She returned at 37, now in a relationship but having trouble conceiving. We discovered the issue was male-factor related, which we were able to address within three months. The couple decided to continue trying naturally.
Within the next year, she conceived multiple times but unfortunately experienced four miscarriages. Testing revealed the pregnancies were chromosomally abnormal—likely due to egg ageing. While the couple wasn’t technically infertile, the emotional and physical toll of repeated miscarriages was significant. By this time, she was 39.
I recommended thawing her previously frozen eggs to create embryos and perform genetic testing. That’s exactly what we did. She is now further along in a healthy pregnancy than ever before—and fortunate to have additional frozen embryos for the future.
Genetically tested embryos have a lower risk of miscarriage compared to natural conception, especially as egg quality declines with age.
You are always welcome to discuss your frozen eggs with our scientists or donor team.
Alternatively, you may wish to discuss the options with your doctor – if it’s been over 12 months it’s a medicare requirement that you get a new referral to be eligible for a partial rebate on appointment costs.
To chat with the No.1 team call 9132 9600.