Embryo Donation
Sometimes, even after multiple attempts, IVF may not be successful. Various factors can contribute to this, such as the quality of sperm or eggs. In such cases, embryo donation can provide couples with the opportunity to become parents.
There are two types of embryo donation. One involves selecting a donor and using fresh eggs, while the other involves using a frozen embryo.
If you choose to proceed with fresh eggs, a donor is selected, and the ovaries are stimulated with medication to produce a high number of high-quality eggs. After the donor’s eggs are collected (approximately 12 days after starting the medication), they are fertilized with donor sperm using ICSI. After about 5 days of cultivation in the laboratory, the embryos are ready for transfer to the mother.
An advantage of using fresh eggs is the ability to determine the health and quality of embryos through a procedure called Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD).
The other option is using a frozen embryo. This treatment option is much faster than starting a new cycle, as embryos can be transferred after a brief “thawing” period of about 15 minutes. Embryos can be frozen for approximately 2 years without any loss of quality. For frozen embryo treatment, the mother only needs to be in Cyprus for about 3 days.
Embryo donation offers hope for couples facing challenges with conceiving, providing them with alternative paths to parenthood. The choice between fresh or frozen embryos depends on various factors, and the medical team will guide and support the couple in making the best decision for their unique situation.
