For many couples, assisted reproductive technology (ART) has provided the opportunity to conceive a child through egg donation.
However, there are several factors that couples must consider when using an egg donor. From finding and choosing an egg donor to the legal and insurance implications, there are many things couples may not know about using an egg donor.
In this article, we will discuss the 10 things couples did not know about using an egg donor and important things couples should be aware of when considering egg donation.
Finding and Choosing an Egg Donor
Finding and choosing an egg donor is a process that takes time. Depending on the availability of suitable donors, the process can take weeks or months. Couples should research and compare different egg donor profiles to find a donor who meets their needs.
It is also important to consider the egg donor’s medical and psychological background and to ensure that all legal obligations are met.
Psychological Support
Psychological support is essential in the egg donation process. Egg donation can be a difficult journey, both emotionally and physically. With the right psychological support, couples can process their emotions and identify any potential challenges or issues they may face.
Couples should also be aware of any potential issues they may face post-pregnancy.
Egg Donation is More Common than You Think
Egg donation is a common solution for couples struggling to conceive.
In the United States, approximately 10,000 babies are born every year as a result of egg donation. Despite the increasing prevalence of egg donation, couples should remember that each journey is unique and that no two couples will have the same experience.
Choosing the Egg Donation Type
When choosing an egg donation type, couples should consider their individual needs and preferences.
There are three main types of egg donation – anonymous egg donation, known egg donation, and shared egg donation. Anonymous egg donation involves using an egg donor from a donor bank and is the most common option.
Known egg donation involves using a known donor, such as a friend or family member. Shared egg donation involves using two donors, with one donating eggs and the other undergoing an IVF cycle.
Friends/Family Members May Not Be Suitable Egg Donors
While using a friend or family member as an egg donor may seem like an attractive option, they may not always be suitable donors. Egg donation is a complex process that involves psychological and medical screenings and legal obligations.
Couples should carefully consider whether their friend or family member is able to provide what is required.
Failed IVF Cycle Will Be Canceled
Couples should be aware that a failed IVF cycle can result in the cancellation of the egg donation process. If the egg donor fails to produce viable eggs or the sperm is unable to fertilize the egg, the cycle will be canceled.
As a result, couples may need to start the process again with a new egg donor.
Risk of Birth Defects is Increased
Couples should be aware that using an egg donor increases the risk of birth defects. The risk of birth defects is increased when eggs from a donor are used, and couples should be prepared for the possibility of a child with special needs.
Couples should discuss these potential risks with their doctor and consider all available options before making a decision.
Your Next Children May Be From Different Egg Donors
Couples should be aware that their next children may be from different egg donors. If the egg donor’s eggs are no longer viable, couples may need to select a different egg donor to conceive another child.
Couples should also consider the implications of their children having different genetic backgrounds.
Lawyers Need to Be Involved
Egg donation is a legal process, and couples should consult a lawyer to ensure that the process is properly done. A lawyer can help couples understand their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal implications.
In addition, a lawyer can review any contracts and advise couples on the best course of action.
Insurance May Not Cover Egg Donation
Couples should be aware that their insurance may not cover the cost of egg donation. Depending on the terms of the insurance policy, couples may need to pay for the entire cost of the egg donation process out of pocket.
Couples should research and compare different insurance policies to determine which covers the cost of egg donation.
Conclusion
Using an egg donor to achieve a pregnancy is a complex process that requires extensive research and consideration. Couples should become familiar with the legal, emotional, and physical implications of egg donation to ensure a successful pregnancy.
From finding and selecting an egg donor to understand the increased risk of birth defects, couples should be aware of the various aspects of egg donation before embarking on this journey.
With the right guidance and support, couples can be confident in their decision to use an egg donor and have the family they have always dreamed of.