Fertility preservation, also known as oocyte cryopreservation or egg freezing, is a medical procedure in which a woman’s eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use. This is usually done for medical reasons, such as in cases where a woman is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy that may affect her fertility, or for women who need to delay childbearing due to personal or professional reasons.

Social freezing, on the other hand, is a term used to describe the practice of freezing a woman’s eggs for non-medical reasons, such as to delay childbearing until later in life. This is also sometimes referred to as “fertility preservation for social reasons.”

While fertility preservation is a well-established medical procedure, social freezing is a relatively new and controversial practice. Some people argue that it gives women more freedom and control over their reproductive choices, while others argue that it can give women a false sense of security and may not be a reliable option for ensuring future fertility.

It is important for anyone considering fertility preservation or social freezing to speak with a qualified medical professional to fully understand the risks, benefits, and limitations of these procedures.