Author: hdc96

The True Facts about the Egg Donor Matching Process…

The concept of “Donor Matching” may give the impression that finding a suitable egg donor is a complex and a time consuming task for which a fee must be charged. The concept, likely originated by one of the numerous egg donor banks and agencies in the United States, was designed mainly to impress you and justify charging more money for this service.

Donor matching is a straightforward process that involves searching the egg donor database using your specific attributes to find suitable donors. The key attributes considered are blood type and Rh factor, eye color, natural hair color and height. It is important to note that factors such as the donor’s academic performance, intelligence quotient (IQ), profession, and hobbies like music or art do not necessarily determine your child’s abilities. The long answer to this question is intricate and multifaceted and there isn’t enough research to make any significant conclusions.

Debunking the Myth

It is a common misconception that our sperm and eggs carry only our own characteristics. However, this is not true. In reality, our genetic material comes from our entire gene pool, including our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles.

When it comes to egg donation and the genetic material delivered by a particular sperm, the resulting baby may resemble the father or sperm donor if their DNA characteristics are expressed (epigenetics). However, it is also possible for that specific sperm to carry traits from distant relatives, such as an aunt, who had curly blonde hair and brown eyes. In such cases, the son or daughter may not resemble the source of the sperm at all. It all comes down to chance, as each sperm cell carries a unique combination of ancestral genes.

The same principle applies to the eggs (oocytes) of your egg donor. Any given egg can contain genes from any group of the donor’s ancestors, regardless of their physical resemblance.

Based on these facts, choosing an exceptionally intelligent and beautiful donor does not automatically mean that the child will possess the same attributes.

Hereditary Disorders and Medical History

The topic of hereditary disorders in the egg donor’s family is the next concern to consider when transitioning to egg donation, right? Actually, today the focus is on Genetic Carrier Screening. If your partner undergos the expanded carrier screening panel and the results come back negative, it doesn’t matter what genetic disorders the donor’s family may have, except for psychological disorders. However, if your partner has a mutation, we will test the donor for the same mutation, and if she tests negative, there is no need to worry. The Expanded Genetic Carrier Screening panel addresses any apprehensions you may have regarding the medical and hereditary background of the egg donor.

Egg Donor Selection and Screening |Medical Tests

Medical screening of the egg donor is manditory and performed by one of our reproductive endocrinologist and is regulated by the Ministry of Health in Ukraine. You can download the comprehensive list of oocyte donor’s tests here.

The primary concern lies in the recipients’ need to establish a meaningful connection with the donor, enabling them to begin their egg donation program. If you are facing mental obstacles and waiting for the perfect donor who fulfills all your criteria, it indicates a reluctance to fully commit and using the excuse of not finding the right donor as a mere convenience to delay the inevitable.

Some recipients undergoing the transition to egg donation may feel the need to identify with the donor as part of the Acceptance stage, which can inadvertently prolong the decision-making process. It’s important to remember that physical resemblance to the donor does not impact the appearance of your future child.

Many recipients base their perception of the donor’s compassionate nature solely on her appearance. This can create a sense of comfort and positivity for the recipient as they proceed with the embryo transfer process.

Donor Matching is a streamlined procedure that can be completed quickly and without any additional expenses. Our primary focus is on addressing the crucial factors that guarantee a successful implantation and the birth of a healthy child. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the process, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our dedicated coaches. Our team is available seven days a week, from 09:00 to 22:00, to assist you. Schedule an appointment NOW

FAQ Regarding the 7 Common Fears Associated with Conceiving with Donor Eggs.

February 3rd, 2024
You Are Not Alone
When you are faced with the decision of using donor eggs, it is often not your initial choice or the outcome you envisioned. Many have persevered through the challenges of infertility, only to be confronted with one option.

This sudden turn of events can evoke feelings of fear, uncertainty, confusion, and even isolation. Reaching this point, after giving your all to create the family you desire, can be incredibly difficult to come to terms with. Having counseled +800 couples for the past 13 years, I can confidently affirm that every emotion and apprehension you experience is completely normal. Your sentiments are shared by many others, and although the infertility community may seem reserved, you are far from being alone.

Throughout our work with women facing this decision, we have encountered seven common fears that echos down through the years.

1. I will not form an emotional connection with my baby.

Understanding the concept of using another woman's eggs to conceive your baby can be quite challenging. It’s understandable that this idea may cross your mind, and you should know that you are not alone. However, it’s important to note that this feeling is uncommon. The accounts of mothers who have conceived children through donor eggs demonstrate their complete and unwavering acceptance of their baby as their own.

2. I will carry a sense of sadness knowing that I am not the biological mother of my child.

There is no doubt that you will unquestionably be the biological mother. The biological foundation underlies the entire process of pregnancy, childbirth, and even breastfeeding. When you use a donor egg, the genetic makeup of the baby originates from the donor and remains unchangeable. However, it is important to understand that the person who carries the baby also contributes to the manner in which the genes are expressed. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as the “epigenetic effect.”

3. My child may eventually say, “You are not my biological mother.”

Children see their parents as the ones who take care of them, spend quality time with them, shower them with love, and provide guidance. It's highly unlikely for children to express this sentiment directly. Even if they do, it’s often a form of “teen code” that actually means “I’m frustrated with how you control my life, and I want to hurt you.” Be assured that your child may never express this verbally, and it’s primarily resides in your own mind.

4. My child will not be accepted by my family..

If your family holds strong traditional values and places great importance on genetics as the fundamental family connection, the idea of egg donation may appear to be a significant leap. In such cases, you have the option to withhold this information from them. You can choose to share it at a later time or even decide not to share it at all. The timing of revealing this to your family and your inner circle is something to consider as well. Don't hesitate to seek guidance from a counselor to assist you in making this decision. We have families from different religious backgrounds who have chosen not to disclose the fact that they have two or more children from donor eggs to their families.

5. My child will become confused if I tell.

There is an abundance of readily available information on this subject that is reassuring and will put you at ease. When children are raised with the understanding that their parent(s) received assistance in order for them to be born, and it is never treated as a forbidden topic, children do not feel bewildered. Experts suggest telling donor-conceived children during their preschool or school- age years. Telling kids early on means they always know the truth about their origins. This way, they have time to absorb the information gradually and accept it as a natural part of their identity and family

6. Opting to conceive through the use of donor eggs can be perceived as a self-centered choice.

Nonsense. Acknowledge and appreciate yourself for the immense desire you have to be a parent and for the care you provide to your child even before they are born. You have gone through numerous challenges to bring your child into this world, all driven by your love and concern for them. You have carefully evaluated your choices and concluded that this is the best decision for you.

7. Donors are just doing this for money and may be lying about their family health history.

Why do people donate? This is a question that is often asked. After interviewing numerous donors, I have found that they are usually thoughtful, well-informed individuals who receive support from their loved ones. However, financial compensation does play a role in their decision. Nevertheless, they also have a genuine desire to help others.

Many donors are motivated by the opportunity to assist a family in their journey to parenthood. They do not view their donation as giving up a child, but rather as providing the essential building blocks for creating a baby. Additionally, they make an effort to consider their family history before making a decision.

From working with donors they are open and honest, and they are not driven by desperation for money.

Do you have further concerns about using donor egg?

Please call or contact us to alleviate your worries!

Exploring the Significance of Hysteroscopy in Egg Donation & IVF: An Extensive Guide

In the realm of Egg Donation and IVF, individuals embark on an emotional journey filled with highs and lows. Egg Donation serves as a beacon of hope for couples grappling with infertility. The intricate nature of an embryo transfer necessitates various factors aligning perfectly for success. Among these crucial factors, the role of hysteroscopy in assessing the efficacy of the embryos successful implantation has come to the forefront. This
comprehensive guide sheds light on the intricate relationship between hysteroscopy and the transfer of an embryo to your endometrium, showcasing how this minimally invasive procedure can significantly enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy. Ongoing research has further solidified the role of hysteroscopy in addressing issues such as
recurrent miscarriages and thin endometrium, offering new avenues for managing these challenges.

Hysteroscopy: Setting the Stage for a Successful Embryo Implantation.

Prior to undergoing your embryo transfer, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the uterine environment. Hysteroscopy plays a critical role in this process by detecting any potential obstacles to successful
implantation or embryo development. Conditions such as uterine fibroids and polyps, which often do not present symptoms, have been associated with implantation failures and pregnancy losses. By identifying and addressing these
issues through hysteroscopy, the chances of a successful outcome can be significantly improved. Research has shown that women who undergo hysteroscopy before embryo transfer, based on appropriate indications, experience higher pregnancy rates and lower miscarriage rates compared to those who do not. This underscores the importance of a healthy uterine environment in optimizing conception.

A Synergistic Approach: The Integration of Hysteroscopy and Endometrium Preparation

The Egg Donation process begins with an initial consultation, followed by a series of medical tests and genetic screening of your partner. After these steps are completed, the OBGYN will recommend birth control pills to regulate your menstrual cycle in preparation for the egg retrieval process. Once your cycle is synchronized with the donor’s, you will be prescribed mild hormones to prepare your endometrium for embryo transfer.

A Hysteroscopy is instrumental in identifying any uterine abnormalities that could potentially hinder the success of the embryo implantation on your endometrium. Conditions such as uterine polyps, fibroids, adhesions (scar
tissue), and septum can impede embryo implantation and the development of a pregnancy. By detecting these issues through hysteroscopy, It is recommended to undergo a hysteroscopy early, as a gynecological surgeon may need to
schedule a surgical removal of fibroids before proceeding with the embryo transfer, which could potentially cause a delay in the embryo transfer.

Moreover, hysteroscopy helps in creating an optimal environment for embryo implantation by ensuring that the uterine lining is well-prepared. By addressing any obstacles to implantation, such as uterine abnormalities, OBGYNs can enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy.

The Importance of Hysteroscopy in Recurrent Miscarriages

Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing experience for couples, leading to extensive research and investigation. Uterine factors frequently contribute to the difficulty in maintaining a pregnancy. Hysteroscopy is seen as a valuable tool in evaluating and managing these factors. Studies from reputable sources emphasize the role of hysteroscopy in cases of recurrent miscarriages. Through hysteroscopy, experts can detect structural anomalies, adhesions, or scar tissue that may be responsible for recurrent pregnancy losses. Timely intervention to
correct these issues can bring new hope to couples desiring a successful pregnancy journey. The average rate of miscarriages in egg donation is less than 16 percent. Around half of all miscarriages that occur during the first trimester can be attributed to a chromosomal abnormality in the developing fetus.

Exploring Solutions: Hysteroscopy’s Role in Recurrent Implantation Failure.

In assisted reproduction, implantation failure can be a significant obstacle for some couples, even with high-quality embryos and ideal conditions. Hysteroscopy is a valuable tool in investigating potential issues within the
uterine cavity that may be hindering successful implantation. Studies have shown that hysteroscopy can play a crucial role in addressing factors like endometrial polyps, intrauterine adhesions, and chronic endometritis, ultimately improving the chances of a successful embryo implantation.

Advantages and Factors to Consider: Ensuring Well-informed Choices

• Incorporating hysteroscopy into the Egg Donation process brings numerous advantages, such as:
• Precise Diagnosis: Hysteroscopy offers a clear and precise visualization of uterine abnormalities that may not be identified through other methods, leading to an accurate diagnosis.
• Early Intervention: By identifying the problem at an early stage, it i possible to address it before your embryo transfer, thereby increasing the chances of achieving a higher success rate.
• Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: Early detection and treatment of uterine issues can result in time and cost savings for patients by preventing unsuccessful embryo transfer.

Conclusion

In the complex world of infertility and third party reproduction , being meticulous can be the key to success. The recognition of the significance of hysteroscopy in cases of recurrent implantation failure exemplifies how technological progress has enhanced the outcomes of assisted reproduction. This procedure, which involves minimal invasion, enables fertility specialists to identify hidden barriers, rectify structural irregularities, and provide renewed optimism to couples experiencing repeated miscarriages or failed implantations. The undeniable importance of hysteroscopy prior to your endometrium preparation, as well as its ability to address these obstacles, is supported by reputable sources that confirm its positive influence.

Getting Through the 9 to 12 Day Wait after yourEmbryo Transfer

Commonly Asked Questions

For most patients who undergo an egg donor embryo transfer, the 9 to 12 day wait before you have your beta test can seem like an eternity. Each day seems longer than the last, and the question “Am I pregnant?” goes through your mind hundreds of times a day. One becomes hyperaware of your body’s every sensation. We all sympathize and
wish there were some medical way to make the time shorter or easier for you. In an effort to ease some of the anxienty, we gathered some questions from our community, and came up with some answers to your pressing questions.

Q: What is the 9 to 12 day wait?

A: This wait is the period of time between the end of your embryo transfer and beta hCG blood test—the test that determines whether or not you’re pregnant. It takes about 9 days from the time a blastocyst embryo implants in the uterine wall to start emitting enough of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) to be detected by a blood
test. We sometimes call the test a “beta” because the test actually measures a beta chain portion of the hCG hormone molecule and is officially named a “beta HCG test.”

Q: Can I take a home pregnancy test to see if I’m pregnant?

A: We recommend that you refrain from performing a home pregnancy test as they can render false results, either a false negative or false positive. A false positive result may be due to the fact that in many of our treatments, hCG, the same hormone that measures pregnancy, is given to “trigger” ovulation in many of our patients. Traces of
the administered hCG can still be in your bloodstream and detectable by a test, even if implantation has not occurred. A false negative might occur as a low level of hCG may be undetectable in a urine test, despite a pregnancy starting, as urine tests are less sensitive than the blood hormone tests we use.

On average, 9 days after your embryo transfer you will visit your OBGYN for your pregnancy test. This test is done by blood draw and measures the hCG levels produced by the developing embryo. The most reliable pregnancy test is the blood test performed in the clinic.

Q: What is happening to my body during the first two-week?

A: During this time, you may feel as if you are about to start your period. Your body has been through a lot and the medications you’re taking are designed to promote the optimal environment for pregnancy. You may experience some cramping, spotting, or light bleeding, abdominal bloating, fatigue, and breast tenderness. While you may be slightly alarmed to experience some of these symptoms, they are normal and do not signify that you are or are not pregnant.

Please note, if after your emvryo transfer you feel excessive bloating, shortness of breath, chest pain, or lower abdominal pain, you may have ovarian hyperstimulation and should call your clinical team immediately.

Q: Will I be taking medications during this time?

A: Yes. Most patients need to continue to take progesterone supplements in order to produce the same levels of hormones that would occur in early stages of pregnancy.

While most patients will supplement their progesterone via pill or vaginal insert, patients who are using donor egg or frozen embryos will use the injectable form of progesterone for their cycles.

Additionally, patients who undergo IVF, donor egg, or frozen embryo transfers may also be prescribed estrogen supplements to help thicken and maintain the uterine lining.

Please do not stop taking these medications until you have been advised by your OBGYN to do so.

Q: Can I continue my normal day-to-day activities during the two-week wait?

A: We tell all of our patients to be cautious during their first five days after their embryo transfer. We recommend that you refrain from strenuous physical activities as well as sexual activities during that time as they may cause uterine contractions that might impair the implantation process. There is also a greater risk during that time of ovarian issues arising since, for many patients, the ovaries are still slightly enlarged at that
point.

After those first few days, you can start to do light aerobic activities such as yoga, swimming, moderate walking and swimming, and lightweight training on a step machine or elliptical trainers—activities that can get your heart rate up, but are not demanding or heavily impact the body like jogging, impact aerobics, or treadmills.

Q: Do I need to adjust my diet during this time?

A: No special diet is required, but we recommend that you start making nutritional choices as if you’re already pregnant. This means eating well-balanced meals, no sushi or other raw or undercooked meats, avoiding high-mercury fish and soft cheeses, no alcohol, and continuing to take prenatal vitamins.

Q: Can I travel during the the wait (or thereafter if pregnant)?
A: We prefer that patients avoid traveling for the first few days post-treatment, primarily so that you are close to our OBGYN for examination should any symptoms develop. This also is true during and following the time of your pregnancy testing and ultrasound.

Early pregnancy complications such as hyperstimulation, bleeding, or pain can occur and we would want you near your team for care. In addition, the rigors of travel, time zone changes, luggage, etc. leave you vulnerable to complications. Before you schedule travel during this period of time, check with your nurse and team to see if this
is at all advisable.

Q: What levels of hCG will determine if I’m pregnant?
A: Any positive level of beta hCG above 5 mIu/ml indicates a pregnancy has started (unless the test is done too early following an HCG trigger injection). A blood hCG number over 100 is a good first beta result, but many, many ongoing pregnancies start out with a beta hCG level below that number. Higher numbers cannot predict a multiple pregnancy; only the ultrasound can determine that.

Additional beta tests will be performed every 48 hours after the first positive test to confirm the hCG level continue to rise. We look for the level of hCG to rise about 60 percent or more in each of the additional tests. If the number continues to increase, we’re more confident that it’s likely a viable pregnancy.

You will require several ultrasounds usually between six to seven weeks to determine if the embryo continues to develop into a fetus. At about eight plus weeks, you will continue your prenatal care with your fertility specialist.

Q: If I am pregnant, how do you “count” how far along we are?

A: As soon as it is determined that you are pregnant, we revert to the obstetrical counting / dating system. Determining gestational age after fresh and frozen embryo transfers can be done by calculating the number of days since the embryo transfer. For fresh embryo transfers, the gestational age is calculated from the date of the embryo transfer. For frozen embryo transfers, the gestational age is calculated from the date of the embryo’s original creation, which is typically the date of egg retrieval.

Your first early pregnancy ultrasound is usually scheduled between six to seven weeks gestational age. That is actually only four to five weeks from your embryo transfer. You just saved two weeks off the length of a 40-week pregnancy.

Q: What are my next steps if I’m not pregnant?

A: If the embryo did not implant and you arent pregnant dont panic please, we will advise you to stop your medications. You will have the opportunity to talk with us to review the previous transfer and make a decision together about your second embryo transfer.

Q: How long after a failed embryo transfer can I do ?

A: While your physician will determine the timing of a new cycle, it’s not always necessary to take time off between cycles unless otherwise directed. Many of our patients are able to begin their next treatment cycle immediately, and for many, a cycle of rest is recommended.

We know that these two weeks can be a very stressful time. If you’re looking for ways to help pass the time, you can reach out and get support from patients who understand what you are going through. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us.

Epigenetics: Using Donor Eggs

Epigenetics has been a fascinating and growing field of study over recent years, especially because of the implications it has for patients using donor eggs or donor embryos. In this section, we will give a quick explanation of what exactly epigenetics is and the incredible connections it establishes between a donor egg recipient mother and her unborn child.

Vocabulary

Epigenetics literally means “above” or “on top of” genetics. It refers to external modifications to DNA that turn genes “on” or “off.” These modifications do not change the DNA sequence, but instead, they affect how cells “read” genes.

What is Epigenetics?

As explained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, “epigenetics is defined as heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve a change in DNA sequence.” Although the gene sequence itself cannot be altered, other environmental factors in the birth mother’s body modifies the gene expression, or what the gene
does. Essentially, scientific studies of epigenetics are revealing that the activity levels of some genes may be “dimmed” or turned up in response to other external cues from the environment—even in the womb! This means that as a donor egg recipient, your body still influences the gene development of your baby.

Epigenetics and Donor Eggs or Donor Embryos

One of the most emotionally challenging aspects of the IVF journey for many women is that their baby will not share genetic information with them. However, recent advancements in the field of epigenetics have suggested that the birth mother, including mothers who are recipients of donor oocytes, plays a significant role in the way the baby’s genes develop.

Although certain characteristics of the baby may be genetically inherent of the egg donor, male partner, or sperm donor, the baby is still growing from the birth mother’s body. After the implantation of the embryo and throughout the entire pregnancy, every cell in the baby’s body is influenced by the birth mother’s body. All the nutrients that the mother is intaking (protein, vitamins, minerals, calcium, sugars) are being used to build the little human inside of them. The baby lives in the birth mother’s embryonic fluid for nine months, shares their blood flow, their rhythm, and the baby’s gene expression is influenced by the prenatal environment of the mother’s womb.

Donor Eggs: Will the Baby Look Like Me?

If you are wondering, “Will my baby look like me when using donor eggs?” the answer is the same for women who conceive naturally, and that is that nobody knows. Every egg and every sperm carries genetic material from the entire gene pool, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and so on. Even after the baby is born, the manifestation of genetics is a process that lasts throughout an entire lifetime.

Although a donor egg recipient mother does not contribute maternal genes to the baby, she still has a profound influence on how the baby’s genes will perform throughout the individual’s entire life.

Epigenetics: Your Lifestyle Impacts Your Baby’s Gene Development

Intuitively, we can easily wrap our heads around the idea that many aspects of a child are influenced by the way they are raised. We realize that the child develops traits and behaviors from the parents who are raising him or her. However, when we translate this concept to a fetus inside the womb, it becomes a bit more nuanced. Does the
environment make that much of a difference? Aren’t the babies simply a genetic result of the biological parents?

Well, there are scientific revelations that explain the epigenetic effect in molecules known as microRNAs that are secreted in the mother’s womb. These microRNAs act as a communication system between the mother and the growing fetus and are responsible for fine tuning the activity levels of genes during development and throughout life. So, epigenetics uses actual biological and chemical signals to regulate how much functional activity a gene will be putting out.

As a recipient of donor oocytes, you are responsible for more than just the gestation and birth of the baby. You are responsible for creating a healthy environment for the embryo to develop in, an environment that will literally contribute to the way in which the baby’s genes form, which characteristics are turned on or turned off, and the future health of your child—even as an adult.

Epigenetics: Quality of Life Inside the Womb Has Life-Lasting Health Effects on the Baby

Not only does epigenetics begin in the womb, but scientists also believe that the most fundamental impact on gene function occurs in utero. A birth mother’s womb serves as the first, and most impactful, environment for the baby. This means that the mother’s lifestyle choices from even before conception, and especially throughout gestation, have a tremendous impact on the overall health of the individual for the rest of their lives.

Several studies, including the “fetal origin hypothesis” by David J. Barker, suggest that the environmental factors that an individual is exposed to in utero have a direct impact on whether that individual develops major medical conditions in their adult life. Essentially, the quality of life inside the womb plays a significant role in the future health of an individual.

Amazingly, the birth mother’s health before and during conception also contributes to the overall health of the baby. So, it’s best to get into a healthy lifestyle routine before conception and maintain healthy habits throughout pregnancy and beyond. Two main contributing factors to creating the healthiest prenatal environment possible for your baby are stress and nutrition. Talk to your physician to receive specific health recommendations.

Using Donor Eggs or Donor Embryos: You Contribute More Than You Think

Moral of the story: As a mother using donor eggs or donor embryos, you are completely involved in the development of your baby. Ultimately, it’s the combination of genetics and epigenetics that form your baby into the unique human being that they become. If you are considering using donor eggs or donor embryos, we encourage you
to register today to browse donor profiles and contact our friendly and knowledgeable team if you have any additional questions!