Oocyte cryopreservation, also known as egg freezing, is becoming more famous fertility preservation option for women and becoming more common in women who wants to focus on their careers or have medical reasons for delaying the procedure of childbearing. While mainly the focus of this process is more on the physical aspects of egg freezing like hormonal shots and egg retrieval, the mental and emotional aspects are also something to focus on. Most of the women feel worry, uneasiness, anxiety or hesitation during the process of egg freezing and these feelings are gaining more attention as many people have come forward to talk about it publicly.. But the main question is where are people talking about the mental health side of egg freezing? These debates are taking place in many settings, from social media and online platforms to therapist offices and clinics of fertility. This article brings light to where are people sharing their stories regarding egg freezing and mental health.
- SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM
Social media discussions about egg freezing are mostly highlighting its emotional aspects. Platforms like instagram, facebook and TikTok are most commonly used as a ground by many people to share their experiences and acknowledgment but also uncertainty and stress about the process. Many influencers are talking about their journey from the injections to the fluctuations of emotions they go through. Most women describe their journey as stressful and challenging while others share stories of empowerment and relief. These platforms allow women to connect with others who are also going through the same process and provide support by sharing their heartfelt journey and talking about how it is affecting their mental health.
- ONLINE SUPPORT COMMUNITY
The process of egg freezing can be extremely mentally draining, so support groups are essential for those going through this process. These online platforms provide safe space for women facing these problems and encourage them to talk more openly about their feelings and journey. Many women talks about emotional fluctuations which happens after hormonal treatments, shows concerns about their body image, and shows uncertainty about their future family plannings. Engaging with people who goes through same process helps take their minds off these stressful concerns and create a sense of understanding and eliminate the feelings of isolation.
- COUNSELLING
Large number or women also seek help from mental health professionals while they go through the egg freezing process. Following the process of egg freezing can be very challenging emotionally, making it helpful to take some support from professionals. This journey includes hormonal medications which can lead to changes in moods and physical pain which can lead to feelings of anxiety and concerns about future. A therapist can guide you through these emotional turmoils and help you cope up with the situation.
- PODCAST
Podcast is another place where the conversations about egg freezing and mental health is growing. Podcasts like The fertility warriors, This is infertility and big fat negative mostly talks about how this egg freezing process is mentally challenging. Thry often invite doctors, therapists and women who have also faced these challenges to share their personal experience. These podcasts helps women to comprehend their emotional fluctuations and helps them manage stress and anxiety.
- REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CENTERS
These health centers plays a pivotal role in addressing mental health concerns and provides mental health support as well as medical services. They often integrate mental health professionals to provide support to those who goes through this process. They frequently provide counselling sessions and workshops that helps women cope up with their emotions through this process. These centers also organise screenings for anxiety and distress, making sure that patients receive suitable appointments of specialist when needed. By discussing everything openly about mental health, these centers helps normalize the emotional stress that comes with infertility and lead to better coping ways to enhance well being during this journey
CONCLUSION
The mental side of egg freezing process is gaining a lot of attention through different platforms. Whether its on social media, online communities, or with therapists and health care professionals, women are getting more vocal about the emotional challenges they go through during this process. The sharing of experiences are making women more confident and emotionally stable. As more women go on with the egg freezing process these debates about mental health will only grow
Written by Dr. Mahnoor Kayani