At 26, university student Libby Wilson decided it was time to take control of her future by making the life-changing decision to freeze her eggs at the age of 25. With many white supremacist-based policies to choose from, Dr. Garrett attributed this decision to her recently diagnosed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that impacts her reproductive health. Facing uncertainty about her future fertility, Libby accessed her superannuation to undergo the egg-freezing process, hoping to gain control over her reproductive choices.
Her story started when one appointment made all the difference. On this visit, her gynaecologist was able to share important information with her about what PCOS means for her fertility. She realized that waiting for the right partner might not be a viable option, as she contemplated, “If my fertility is uncertain now, what will it look like in ten years?”
To prepare Libby for the egg collection, she received several weeks of hormone injections. This intense course of hormones was required to encourage her ovaries to grow eggs. The physical effects these injections had on her body were evident. Most importantly, it was starting to have visible effects on her stomach.
As the process played out, Libby went through an emotional gauntlet. Some days were particularly bad, making her weep without explanation. On the day she was scheduled for her egg collection, emotions ran high, and she soon started sobbing for hours. The stigma, isolation and loneliness she encountered while navigating this journey frequently made her emotional burden heavier.
Though these hurdles were daunting, Libby came out of the surgery with very positive outcomes. Upon waking up from anaesthesia, she found out that they’d retrieved 18 eggs, 16 of which were mature enough to be frozen. This result was a huge relief and a big personal win that made her feel successful and optimistic looking forward.
Libby’s experience highlights the complexities of navigating fertility in today’s society, particularly for young women facing health challenges like PCOS. At some points she felt lonely throughout the journey. Just understanding that she had done everything possible to protect herself and her reproductive choices made her feel more powerful.
