Why I Froze My Eggs

When Fortune magazine’s assistant managing editor Leigh Gallagher turned 38 she made the decision to freeze her eggs, an experience she recently wrote about on the women’s websiteThe Hairpin. 

In her recent Big Think interview, Gallagher discusses her decision as well as the bioethics and social implications involved in delaying parenthood. “Three or four or five years ago, this really wouldn’t have been as viable an option for people in my situation, but now it is,” says Gallagher. 

Watch the video here:

What’s the Significance?

According to Gallagher, the ability to hold off the biological clock has “long-term implications for the workplace.” In her experience, Gallagher says she sees a lot of women “leave the workplace for a few years, women on very high-track careers, to have children.” And at what cost?

Gallagher edits Fortune’s 40 Under 40 list and says “we consistently have a problem finding women in their 30s who match the achievement of the men on the list, and it’s a constant struggle for us.” Gallagher says the childcare burden “unevens the playing field for men and women.” While delaying pregnancy may not solve that problem for everyone, Gallagher says it is a good option for people under certain circumstances who “either haven’t met someone yet and want to have children with a partner.” On the other hand, it’s also an option for people “who just aren’t ready just yet but want to keep their options open.”

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