EGG DONATION 101

GETTING STARTED

Duration: 30 to 60 days

To better understand donor assisted embryo transfer, it is important to familiarize yourself with the step-by-step procedure. Prior to your embryo transfer, it is crucial to note that the preparation process may vary slightly depending on the requirements and the instructions provided by your fertility specialist. However, remember that a dedicated member of the EDU team will always be available to support you throughout each stage, ensuring a stress-free experience.
1.
To enroll in our eSET program, we will schedule a consultation with you to discuss and finalize all the necessary details. To expedite the registration process, kindly visit our website and create an account. Upon logging in, you will be redirected to complete our online eSET admissions form. All the required documents and forms can be conveniently accessed and downloaded by clicking on this link. Rest assured, we are here to guide you through a seamless and trouble-free process. Moreover, our team is readily accessible to address any inquiries you may have.
2.
Beginning your diagnostic tests, we recommend an exploratory Hysteroscopy to verify the absence of fibroid tumors, cysts, myoma, and adhesions in your uterus. Gynecologists perform hysteroscopies after the cessation of a menstrual period and before ovulation. This typically occurs between days 6 and 12 of your menstrual cycle, with day one being the first day of menstrual bleeding.
Hysteroscopy is widely recognized as the most accurate when compared to other imaging technologies currently available. A Hysteroscopy is the exam of the inside of the cervix and uterus using a thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope. If you have undergone a hysteroscopy in the last year and have not had an abortion or invasive surgery, there is no requirement to repeat it.
If you need a referral by a physician to make an appointment with a laboratory, your family doctor and gynecologist can prepare the recommendations. Once you have all the test results schedule an appointment with your fertility specialist who will prepare your endometrium for your embryo transfer. If you do not have a fertility specialist and would like our assistance, please let us know.
3.
In parallel, your spouse has a short list of tests. The first test is a semen analysis (spermiogram) which holds significant importance. We suggest including a sperm culture to verify the absence of any bacteria that might potentially affect the sperm’s quality. Adding a culture has demonstrated its benefits in identifying potential factors that could contribute to low sperm quality.
In instances where bacteria (Pyospermia) is detected in the sperm, a full course of antibiotics is prescribed to address the condition. After completing the treatment, a new sperm analysis is performed.
Important: STI blood tests are valid for three months, all other tests unless specified are valid for up to 5 months prior to your scheduled embryo transfer.
4.
Regardless of the source of the sperm used for fertilizing your donor’s oocytes, whether it be from your spouse, or a directed donor, it would be prudent for him to agree to undergo genetic carrier screening. This is because the hereditary and ancestral lineage of oocyte donors may not be entirely accurate. We strongly suggest scheduling a consultation with a genetic consultant. You can consult us first for more information pertaining to genetic screening.
5.
The fertility specialist will carefully review your test results and determine the appropriate protocol to achieve the desired thickness of your endometrium. Your specialist will need the dates of the donor’s ovum retrieval and your embryo transfer to calculate when to regulate your period and synchronize your endometrial preparation (14 to 21 days) with the oocyte retrieval and embryo development. The specialist will want to know if we only use 5-day embryos also known as blastocysts.
While meeting with your specialist please ask him to complete the forms that require a physician’s signature. The result forms that require a physician’s stamp and signature are clearly marked. These documents must be returned to us prior to the scheduled date of your donor’s retrieval.
6.
Important note: There are different approaches to preparing the endometrium for an embryo transfer, each with its own protocol. It’s common for doctors to prescribe oral contraception (birth control pills) to regulate your menstrual cycle and align it with your donor’s.
If you are encountering irregular menstrual cycles or undergoing menopause, The fertility specialists will prescribe oral contraception to simulate a regular cycle. If you have not had a period for an extended period, it is highly advised we wait for the second cycle before your endometrium preparation.
In order to clarify our reasoning, it is important to understand that without the natural hormonal changes and structural developments that take place during a menstrual cycle, your reproductive organs may not be adequately prepared to support the implantation and growth of an embryo. Therefore, it is advisable to wait for the second menstrual cycle to ensure that your uterus lining and the necessary hormonal production are adequately prepared to facilitate the acceptance and support of an embryo.
Now that you have everything just relax! It is widely known that stress is one of the four main reasons, and the only non-medical reason, for difficulties in conceiving. You are now closer than ever to achieving your goal and fulfilling your dream. Take this time to focus on nurturing your body and soul, while also managing your stress. We are here to offer as much support as humanly possible. We are ready to lend an ear, provide answers, and offer moral support, so that you can truly relax and feel at ease.
In the next month prior to your embryo transfer, it is strongly advised for both you and your partner to refrain from any unhealthy habits and begin taking prenatal vitamins. It is important to remain patient and avoid stress during this time. If you have not already done so, we highly recommend downloading our “Guide to Donor Assisted IVF”. This comprehensive guide provides valuable information about every aspect of your eSET embryo transfer.
If you require further information or need clarification on the aforementioned steps, please feel free to reach out to us via email or phone. We offer complimentary consultations (as many times as you need) and are not limited by time.

The EDU Team

In Short

  1. Complete the administrative stage
  2. Medical Tests / Results (up to 2 weeks)
  3. Specialists’ consultation
  4. Semen specimen Bio-courier service to the clinic
  5. Endometrium preparation (average 14 days)
  6. Travel to clinic
  7. Embryo transfer at clinic
  8. Return home
  9. First Beta hCG 9 days post embryo transfer
 
guide to donor assisted IVF

Download Our "Guide To Donor Assisted IVF"

This comprehensive guide has been created based on a decade's worth of frequently asked questions from our intended parents regarding the egg donation program and the various stages involved, from the beginning of the process to the post-embryo transfer period. If you are unable to find the information you are seeking, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance.

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Making the Emotional Transition to Egg Donation

Making the emotional transition to egg donation involves various stages for women who have faced difficulties in conceiving. It may be suggested by a fertility specialist after initial screenings, indicating that egg donation is the most suitable path. Alternatively, if previous IVF treatment attempts have been unsuccessful, you may now be contemplating the use of donor eggs. Understandably, this recommendation can be emotionally challenging.

Your current feelings are a result of your thought process, particularly because you are missing important information and probably don’t have someone who understands what you are feeling to talk to about it.

Through my professional experience assisting couples facing infertility issues, I have gained insight into the challenging journey that women undergo when contemplating the use of donor eggs. This journey is typically filled with emotions such as anger, resentment, fear, and grief. Despite the complexities involved, there appears to be a common pattern that emerges during this transition. While not exhaustive, the information I’ve provided here serves as a starting point for you to understand that third party reproduction is a good choice if no other option is possible.

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