In vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs is a highly effective method of assisted reproduction for women who are unable to use their own eggs to conceive. This procedure has opened new possibilities for many women who, due to various medical or genetic reasons, cannot rely on their own genetic material to have a baby. Below is a comprehensive guide to IVF with donor eggs, highlighting who can benefit from this method and how the process works.

Who Can Benefit from Donor Egg IVF?

IVF with donor eggs is designed for women who are unable to use their own eggs for conception due to a variety of reasons. This method helps women who:

• Have had their ovaries surgically removed for medical reasons.
• Have undergone pelvic radiation therapy, which affects ovarian function.
• Have been treated with chemotherapy, which can damage the ovaries.
• Suffer from early ovarian failure, where the ovaries stop functioning prematurely.
• Are of older biological age and have a low Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) level, indicating diminished ovarian reserve.
• Have experienced repeated IVF failures using their own eggs.
• Have a genetic disease that prevents them from using their own eggs safely.

For all of these women, the use of donor eggs from young women aged 20 to 30 years old offers the opportunity to conceive and carry a child.

How Are Egg Donors Selected and Screened?

Donors go through a rigorous screening process, as outlined by Greek legislation, to ensure that only the healthiest eggs are used in IVF procedures. There is strict anonymity between the donor and the recipient, protecting both parties’ identities.

The screening of egg donors includes:

• Genetic Testing: Donors undergo genetic analysis, including karyotyping (chromosomal analysis), testing for Fragile X syndrome, detection of cystic fibrosis, and screening for Mediterranean anemia.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Donors are tested for all infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections, to ensure that no diseases are passed to the recipient or the baby.
• Psychological Evaluation: Donors undergo psychometric testing by a psychologist to check for any mental illnesses or emotional issues that could affect their ability to donate eggs.

These comprehensive tests are mandated by the Greek government to ensure that only healthy eggs are used in IVF, maximizing the chances of producing healthy children.

How Is the Right Donor Chosen for Each Recipient?

The selection of a donor is done with great care to match the preferences of the recipient. The recipient can preselect certain phenotypic characteristics of the donor, such as hair color, eye color, height, and body type, to ensure the closest possible match.

Additionally, the recipient is informed about the donor’s:

• Age
• Nationality
• Social background
• Educational level
• This information provides the recipient with added assurance that the donor is a suitable match for their family-building goals.

What Are the Success Rates of Donor Egg IVF?

• The success rates for IVF using donor eggs are significantly higher compared to traditional IVF, often exceeding 70%. This is largely due to the fact that donor eggs come from young, healthy women who meet strict eligibility criteria, ensuring high-quality eggs and increasing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
• IVF with donor eggs offers a reliable solution for women who wish to have a child but are unable to use their own eggs. Thanks to advancements in medical technology and genetic science, the chances of success with this method are now better than ever.