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. 2025 Jul 15:47:e-rbgo53.
doi: 10.61622/rbgo/2025rbgo53. eCollection 2025.

Exploring awareness and attitudes toward oocyte cryopreservation among women of reproductive age

Pedro Brandão  1   2 , Rui Cândido  1 , Fábio Carvalho  1 , Liliane Nunes  1 , Patrícia Matos  1 , Pedro Frias  1 , Marisa Coelho  1
Affiliations

Exploring awareness and attitudes toward oocyte cryopreservation among women of reproductive age

Pedro Brandão et al. Rev Bras Ginecol Obstet. .

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate awareness, perceptions, and attitudes toward oocyte cryopreservation among a diverse group of women.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2023 using snowball sampling to distribute a structured questionnaire. The target population included women aged 18+ with childbearing potential, proficient in English. An anonymous online survey with 22 questions collected data on demographics, education, occupation, relationship status, reproductive intentions, and perceptions of oocyte cryopreservation.

Results: A total of 502 responses were analyzed. Most participants were in their thirties, had higher education, and were in committed relationships. They represented 24 countries, mainly in Europe. Over 60% planned to have children, but 85% were unfamiliar with oocyte cryopreservation. Social media (56%) was the primary information source, followed by acquaintances (33%) and healthcare professionals (25%). Only 4.6% were actively considering the procedure, while 41.3% showed potential interest. Barriers included perceived lack of necessity, age concerns, and limited information. Women considering cryopreservation were typically younger and childless. Financial constraints and information gaps significantly influenced decision-making, with about one-third suggesting better information and cost reduction could increase willingness to pursue the procedure.

Conclusion: Despite relatively high awareness of oocyte cryopreservation, actual consideration and uptake remain low. Addressing financial and informational barriers could improve acceptance, especially among younger women and those uncertain about their reproductive plans.

Keywords: Cryopreservation; Fertility; Fertility preservation; Infertility; Oocytes; Surveys and questionnaires; Women's health.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts to interest: none to declare.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Key factors influencing respondents’ decisions on timing of motherhood (1 - least important, 6 - most important)
Figure 2
Figure 2. Factors contributing to the decision against oocyte cryopreservation
Figure 3
Figure 3. Percentage of participants considering oocyte cryopreservation, according to education level, relationship status, parental status, and future childbearing intentions
Figure 4
Figure 4. Factors that could positively influence the intention to undergo oocyte cryopreservation
Figure 5
Figure 5. Participants’ responses on willingness to pay for oocyte cryopreservation
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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