DONOR EGGS AS AN EVEN MORE COMMON PRACTICE NOWADAYS
Donor eggs provide the unique opportunity for women who for some reason do not respond to ovarian hyperstimulation to achieve a successful pregnancy. Showing extremely encouraging results, these days using donor eggs has become a common practice.
WHO NEEDS DONOR EGGS?
The use of donor eggs is offered to in vitro patients when they do not respond well to ovarian stimulation or when their eggs are abnormal, which does not allow them to be used for assisted reproduction. The most common reason for using donor eggs is related to natural age-related decline in ovarian function.
WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING PREGNANT USING DONOR EGGS?
The quality of donor eggs is of paramount importance to the success of the in vitro procedure. For this reason, there are strict requirements for women who wish to donate eggs. On the other hand, the overall health of the recipient is important for a successful pregnancy.
Egg donors are young women up to 35 years old, in excellent health, who have given birth to at least one healthy child. Before donating eggs, they undergo a series of tests – for the most common genetic and transmissible diseases (HIV, Hepatitis B and C, syphilis, chlamydia, cytomegalovirus). Further testing for other genetic diseases can be done after genetic consultation with a specialist to determine the need for such and their type. Of course, this will make the procedure more expensive. As a patient, you should be aware that doing the mentioned above tests does not fully guarantee the prevention of genetic diseases.
WILL MY BABY LOOK LIKE ME?
Unless the egg donor is your relative (such as your sister), you and your baby will not be genetically related. However, this should not discourage you. There is strong evidence to support the mother’s influence on the fetus who’s developing in her womb. Uterine environment is essential for the proper development of the brain, immune system and metabolic health of the baby. This is done by secretion of various substances from the endometrium (the innermost layer of the uterus). Last but not least, emotions and stress during pregnancy can also have an effect on your baby.
That is why a healthy lifestyle and early diagnosis and prevention of pathological conditions are the main prerequisites for the birth of a healthy and happy baby.