Stopping the Biological Clock Who Benefits?

Abstract

Eternal youth is here, at least for the females. This is what tabloids are trumpeting. The ability to store oocytes in order to prevent age-related fertility decline is being widely promoted in Ireland and worldwide, by both fertility clinics and the lay press. This service is referred to as â social oocyte freezingâ and is subject to significant medical, ethical, lawful and financial implications for both patients and assisted reproduction clinics performing the service. It is imperative that medical professionals suggesting â social oocyte freezingâ to their patients are able to provide detailed and accurate information, in order for an informed decision to be made. This review will detail the arguments for and against â social oocyte freezingâ and discuss the ethical and financial considerations for this controversial service.