Women and trans males are delaying parenthood for many reasons. Career paths stretch longer. Graduate and professional training leaves little room for family building until well into their thirties. The rising cost of living has a significant influence on decisions about timing, stability, and partnership. Some individuals are emerging from long relationships and want space to rebuild and reset. Others simply want time to grow, travel, or care for family members who depend on them. Some haven’t found a partner and others who want to consider single parenting are taking time to ensure they are ready.
Awareness of fertility preservation options has been steadily rising since the American Society of Reproductive Medicine stated it was no longer considered experimental in 2012. A more significant surge in demand arose out of the COVID pandemic in 2020. More individuals are learning that they can take control of their reproductive futures. Additionally, advances in stimulation protocols, timing of treatment cycles, and financing options have made egg freezing more attainable. The option allows women to plan ahead, reducing the fear of racing the clock and empowering them to focus on the life they want to build.
Many adults grew up learning how to prevent pregnancy, but rarely learned how fertility changes over time. Lessons on ovarian reserve, egg quality, and reproductive aging were absent from most classrooms. Patients frequently share that understanding these facts about egg freezing earlier would have helped them make more informed choices about timing and feel more prepared for family building challenges that might arise.
As egg freezing becomes more common, comprehensive fertility education is increasingly important. Understanding both biological limits and modern preservation options allows patients to make decisions thoughtfully, rather than feeling pressured by a shrinking window of opportunity.
At Boston IVF, the number of egg thaw cycles has also continued to rise, reflecting patients’ desires to use their previously cryopreserved eggs. Egg thaw cycles rose 57 percent in 2024, with many patients returning years after freezing — providing some of the clearest evidence that preservation expands future options for family building.
These thaw cycles demonstrate the value of fertility preservation decisions and show that delaying parenthood does not mean giving it up. Patients can pursue family-building on their own timeline while preserving flexibility as their priorities evolve.
Egg freezing has evolved from a niche procedure into a core part of fertility care, prompting clinics to rethink capacity, access, and long-term patient support. The trend in Massachusetts may indicate broader shifts nationwide as more people seek reproductive flexibility and clinics adjust to rising demand.
Dr. Nina Resetkova is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist at Boston IVF. She specializes in all aspects of fertility care, with special interests in oncofertility, egg freezing, and LGBTQ+ family building.