- Pape J, Tschudin S (2023): Pro und kontra Social Freezing – eine Stellungnahme aus reproduktionsmedizinischer und psychosomatischer Perspektive. Gynäkologische Endokrinologie 21:53–58.
The advantages are obvious: the eggs remain "fresh" and can be saved for later. The biological clock can thus be set back by several years. Especially since a late pregnancy is not necessarily a cause for concern today. It is true though that the medical risks increase with age. However, for a fit 40-year-old woman without any pre-existing conditions, they remain within manageable limits.
Medicine is developing rapidly. Where new possibilities arise, they are also used. However, the cryopreservation of eggs and subsequent IVF are not medically prescribed measures. The question arises: should this procedure not be subject to higher standards in terms of safety and prospects of success?
The procedure is still fraught with risks, and success is not guaranteed. It also does not stop the natural ageing process.
It is also questionable how "social" and fair the whole thing really is. Social freezing is not a health insurance benefit. Those affected have to bear the costs themselves. Depending on the treatment, they can add up to several thousand euros.
There is still the question of the much-invoked autonomy and emancipation of women. The possibility of social freezing can also put additional pressure on women. They are expected to reconcile work and family life without compromise; after all, the window of opportunity for family planning is much wider.
How alarming this development can be is already evident in large companies in the USA, which cover the costs of social freezing for their female employees. This way, they can take their time having children.
Social freezing has been expanding around the world in recent years. It gives women more freedom and flexibility, but at the same time it involves risks and can create high expectations. Gynaecologists have the important task of providing their patients with comprehensive information and pointing out the opportunities and limits of social freezing.