Trying to get pregnant naturally or through IVF with no success?

Many couples are exploring other infertility options, like the donor egg process.

Talking to professionals who care about your fertility issues should be your first step in exploring infertility options.

What is the donor egg or egg donation process? 

Egg donation is a procedure wherein a fertile woman donates an egg, or oocyte, to another woman to help her conceive.

Why donor eggs?

The donor egg or egg donation process eradicates any issue a woman may have with her eggs – age-related problems, early menopause, genetically-transmitted diseases, or lack of success with traditional IVF (linked to the quality and/or quantity of her eggs).

What can you expect with the egg donation process?

No need to worry because the donor process is safe and painless as it’s done with anesthesia or painkillers.

1. The donor takes medication to stimulate her ovaries and stop her menstrual cycle.
2. The recipient will then start taking estrogen to develop her uterine lining. 
3. The embryo(s) will be transferred to the recipient five days after fertilization.

Learn more about the medical egg donation process here.

1. Take your time in finding the egg donor

Take your time choosing your egg donor. Instead, take your time to find the right one.

Carefully consider accepting egg donations from relatives and close friends. 

Think about the consequences.

It may seem reassuring to use the eggs of someone you know, but many prefer donors from an egg bank. 

Egg donation is no joke and would impact your relationship with the donor.

From awkward dynamics within the family to debates over what role the donor should play in your child’s life, children can get complicated and may lead to issues.

Using an egg bank donor removes these possible complications. 

You’ll be able to see your donor’s childhood or adult photographs, learn about her characteristics, and see her education, career, and life achievements.

Things to ask yourself when choosing an egg donor:

• Would you choose someone who closely resembles you and your spouse? 
• Would you prefer someone with the qualities you admire and hope your child will possess?

2. Fresh or Frozen Donor Egg?

Which is better, fresh or frozen donor egg? 

• The fresh egg donation process is a lengthier procedure. This is because you need time to synchronize cycles with your donor. 
• Frozen donor eggs are readily available. Two weeks after transferring the fertilized embryo(s) to your uterus, you’ll need to go to the clinic for a pregnancy test and ultrasound.

What’s next?

Your pregnancy!

3. Prepare yourself.

After going through the donor egg process...

Be ready for your new role, mama!

Eat food that is best for you and your developing baby.

Ask your doctor what exercise is best for your condition to keep your body strong and healthy.

After giving birth, learn how to be present for your child.

Motherhood is the most challenging job in the world, but you’re superb.

You got this! 

4. Create a happy environment. 

Prepare your home and hearts for your new bundle of joy.

The donor egg process may take a while, from planning, processing, looking for a suitable donor, and deciding, but it’s all worth it.

A new angel will be coming into your lives.

Don’t overlook the vital preparation part.

From baby-proofing your home to finding the best baby essentials to putting your baby to sleep, it’s best to be ready.

Create a happy and healthy environment for your new baby.