IVF Treatment Using a Donor

According to a report, more than 70 percent of the woman who are above 45 and trying for ARTs such as in vitro fertility (IVF), use a donor egg for conceiving a baby. With the advancement in the egg-freezing technology, it has become quite easy to make the use of a donor egg for fertility treatment. These days, there are a number of egg banks, sperm banks and egg donation agencies where donor eggs and embryos are collected and frozen for purchase. Some of the recognized fertility centres have also started their own egg and embryo banks for the convenience of the patients.

Who is eligible to go for fertility treatment with donor embryos and eggs?
Well, IVF treatment using a donor egg or embryo is a safe option for all those women who are above 40 years of age and are unable to conceive through their own egg. It is quite helpful for them in conceiving and delivering a baby of their own. Donor embryo is a wonderful option for all those couples in which both the partners are having fertility problem or have faced multiple miscarriages.

There are numerous reasons why someone might need an IVF treatment using donor eggs and sperm. Premature menopause, producing poor-quality eggs, risks of genetic disorder and absence of ovaries are some of the issues where a doctor recommends going for an IVF treatment using a donor.

How are recipients and donors matched?
It is important that the person who is donating the egg is under 36 years and has children. A donor should be healthy and fit. Physical characteristics, such as eye color, height, build, complexion, blood group and race are also matched before using an egg. According to the instruction from HFEA, the doctor is not allowed to share additional information about the donor before the matching. The donor needs to undergo a health screening process under the supervision of IVF experts. Once the clinic or agency finds a suitable donor match, the next step is to provide professional counseling on the ethical, medical and emotional impact of the donation. 

Lastly, the most crucial step is to make the process legal. It involves a lawyer who draws a contract between the donor and the recipient that defines financial obligations, parental rights and future contacts. Different states have different laws, but a donor usually signs their rights to the child. It is wise to follow the legal process properly in order to avoid any future issues. A legally binding contract is of great help, especially when the donor wants to stay in touch after the child is born. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an IVF Specialist.