In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the most common method for couples with fertility problems. Many successful IVF have been reported and more couples are having this as an option to bear a child.
The idea is quite simple. Eggs and sperm cells taken from the couple are combined in a glass container with fluid medium which is specifically formulated with essential nutrients needed for human cell development. After which, the resulting embryos are implanted into the uterus and assessed if they progress to pregnancy.
Although, in some cases, couples are not able to successfully conceive because healthy embryonization is not possible. This can be because of age, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis or genetically inherited diseases. In these cases, egg donor IVF is recommended.
How to Choose the Right Egg Donor?
Egg donor IVF requires another woman to produce an egg while the partner's or a donor's sperm can be used. Choosing the right egg donor for the procedure can be a struggle for the couple. They can decide whether they want to have a family member, a friend or an anonymous egg donor. In any case, physical and psychological examinations are done to the egg donors.
Donors are strictly selected as eggs should be at the best possible condition. A donor should be 21 to 35 years old. The minimum age limit for the donor is for legal issues while the maximum age limit is set to avoid birth defects. As women get older, the less likely they will react to fertility drugs.
Most choose women who have already given birth as they have proven their level of fertility and low risk of any birth defects. Physical as well as psychological tests are done to donors and they must undergo several diagnostic tests, gynecological examinations and complete family medical history disclosure.
History taking is essential for egg donor IVF to be successful. The family medical history will aid in recognizing risks of birth defects, genetic disorders and familial psychological issues. The embryologist will choose in accordance with the recipient's requirements. Furthermore, they are matched with a donor that closely resembles them. Although, it is still up to the couple to give the final say.
The donors can either be anonymous or they could meet up with the recipients for an interview. There are even cases that both parties would meet up from time to time even after the baby is born.
Egg donor IVF carries some risks for both the donor and the recipient. Donors can experience the complications of IVF including soreness, cramping, intra-abdominal bleeding and infection. Recipients, on the other hand, can contract transmittable diseases. Although, there is a very strict screening of donors, some can still conceal family medical history to get the high amount paid to donors.
Moral and Legal Issues
Christian leaders are concerned about how egg donor IVF disrupts the natural act of conception and marital and family bonds. Couples having difficulty in conceiving a child are encouraged to go for adoption rather than IVF.
Egg donor IVF is strictly regulated in the United States. Both the donor and the recipient will sign a consent to protect the right of the child and recipient. Currently, the Uniform Parentage Act gives complete parental right to the recipient.