Before embarking on the journey of becoming an egg donor, it’s essential to be aware of certain key considerations. Let’s see what insights the expert has to offer.
As fertility treatments evolve, assisted reproductive technology (ART) becomes a vital option for couples facing infertility. While men can produce sperm throughout their lives, women’s egg quality diminishes after 35, reducing the chances of conception even with treatments like IVF. To delve into this topic, the Onlymyhealth editorial team interviewed Dr. Souren Bhattacharjee, Consultant at Birla Fertility & IVF, shedding light on considerations before becoming an egg donor.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports infertility prevalence in India ranging from 3.9% to 16.8%. Globally, declining fertility rates due to various health issues are increasingly common. In this context, egg donation offers hope for starting a family when other options fail. Utilizing eggs from younger donors becomes crucial for successful impregnation when conventional methods prove insufficient.
Important Considerations Before Becoming an Egg Donor
The current recommendation by ICMR is for egg donors to be aged between 23 and 35. Younger donors typically respond better to fertility drugs, resulting in higher quality and quantity of eggs. Here are five key facts to consider before becoming an egg donor:
1. Selection Criteria for Egg Donors
The egg donation process typically involves extensive testing before a donor is approved, given its complexity. Rigorous screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like HIV and hepatitis is conducted, along with general blood tests and ultrasound scans to assess reproductive organ health and detect potential diseases. Additionally, donors may undergo psychological evaluations, especially if the procedure may cause significant emotional stress. These evaluations adhere to guidelines set by the ICMR.
2. Are there any potential hazards
While every precaution is taken to minimize complications, there is a slight risk of bleeding or injury to nearby blood vessels or bowel during the needle injection into the ovary. Although uncommon, infections may occur during egg retrieval but can typically be treated with antibiotics. Additionally, ovarian stimulation can occasionally lead to mild or severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), potentially necessitating hospitalization.
3. Duration of IVF Process
The IVF process typically spans 2-3 months, encompassing the selection and coordination with a suitable egg donor, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. Additionally, the female recipient undergoes medication protocols to prepare the uterus for embryo implantation. Following the transfer, a pregnancy test is conducted to confirm the outcome.
4. Partnership with Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Bank
You can also engage with different ART banks, which are typically accredited by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), facilitating the provision of semen samples, eggs, and egg donors. Adherence to formal procedures and documentation in accordance with ICMR guidelines is necessary. Once these steps are completed, the required treatment procedures can proceed, ensuring the complete anonymity of the donor.
5. Treatments
The IVF journey can be challenging, demanding patience, mental resilience, and physical strength for favorable outcomes. Advances in innovation have led to increased success rates, offering hope to couples facing infertility. While IVF doesn’t offer a cure for infertility, it enables couples to conceive naturally, passing on their genetics to their offspring.
Dr. Souren Bhattacharjee highlights crucial aspects to consider before becoming an egg donor. Fertility treatments continue to evolve daily, significantly impacting modern healthcare. Discussing questions, queries, and pertinent details with your doctor is essential when contemplating egg donation.