Embryo Donation: A Path to Parenthood
What Is Embryo Donation?
Embryo donation is a fertility treatment where a woman receives one or two embryos that have already been fertilized in a laboratory. These embryos are typically created using anonymous donor eggs and sperm from a sperm bank. When an intended parent applies to an IVF clinic, donor eggs and sperm are carefully selected based on the recipient’s blood type and physical characteristics (phenotypical traits) to ensure the best possible match. Once selected, the embryos are created in the laboratory and reserved specifically for the recipient, ready for use in the embryo donation process.
Once the embryos are created, they are flash-frozen using vitrification, a technique that preserves their quality and viability by freezing them at -196°C in liquid nitrogen.
Unlike egg or sperm donation, where only genetic material is provided, embryo donation involves fully developed embryos, making it a unique and effective reproductive option.
Steps of the Embryo Donation Process
The embryo donation procedure follows a structured medical protocol:
Endometrial Preparation: The recipient’s uterus is prepared with hormone therapy to create the optimal environment for implantation.
Embryo Thawing: The frozen embryo is carefully thawed, preserving its integrity.
Embryo Transfer: A simple, painless procedure where the embryo is placed directly into the uterus.
Pregnancy Test: After 10 days, a test is conducted to check if implantation was successful.
First Ultrasound: Around two weeks later, the first scan is performed to confirm the pregnancy and its progression.
Ongoing Monitoring: Once discharged from the fertility clinic, the patient continues with regular pregnancy check-ups.
Who Can Benefit from Embryo Donation?
Embryo donation is a great option for:
Couples struggling with infertility, regardless of whether the issue is male- or female-related.
Single women who want to become mothers.
Same-sex female couples, especially if age or fertility issues are a concern.
Since only high-quality embryos are frozen, embryo donation offers a strong chance of success.
