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IVF with donor eggs

When using your own eggs is not possible or the likelihood of obtaining a suitable embryo is very limited, IVF with donor eggs may offer a different treatment option.

At Adella Clinic, we do not view a donor programme as an automatic next step following a low AMH level, reaching a certain age or an unsuccessful IVF cycle.

Before recommending it, we assess your reproductive history, previous treatments and overall health. We also discuss the genetic aspects of the decision openly, so that you can make an informed choice.

Preparation

We assess your overall health, the uterine cavity, the endometrium and any potential risks for a future pregnancy.

Fertilisation

The donor eggs are fertilised with sperm from your partner or from a selected donor.

Embryo Transfer

The selected embryo is transferred into the uterus through a thin catheter, usually without the need for anaesthesia.

A Different Treatment Option for Carefully Selected Cases

What is IVF with donor eggs?

How does the procedure work?

  • Eggs from a medically assessed donor are used.
  • They are fertilised in the embryology laboratory with sperm from the partner or from a donor.
  • The resulting embryo is transferred into the patient’s uterus.

What is important to know?

  • The genetic material in the egg comes from the donor.
  • The patient carries the pregnancy, and her health and the intrauterine environment play an important role in its development.
  • The patient usually does not need to undergo ovarian stimulation or egg retrieval

A Decision Based on Your Overall Reproductive History

When do we discuss donor eggs?

  • 1

    In cases of premature ovarian insufficiency

    In this condition, the ovaries lose their normal function before the expected age, and obtaining the patient’s own mature eggs may be very difficult.
    We consider whether there is still a medical rationale for treatment using the patient’s own eggs or whether a donor programme offers a more realistic option.
  • 2

    In cases of markedly diminished ovarian reserve

    A low ovarian reserve does not automatically mean that donor eggs are required.
    The programme may be discussed when the response to previous stimulation and the overall assessment indicate a very limited likelihood of obtaining a suitable embryo.
  • 3

    Following previous IVF procedures

    Repeated unsuccessful attempts are not, in themselves, an indication for a donor programme.
    We analyse the number and maturity of the eggs, fertilisation and embryo development. Donor eggs may be discussed when consecutive cycles do not produce embryos suitable for transfer.
  • 4

    Following surgery or cancer treatment

    Ovarian surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may affect ovarian reserve or ovarian function.
    Before the procedure, we separately assess the possibility of obtaining eggs and the safety of a future pregnancy.
  • 5

    When there is a risk of a genetic condition

    Donor eggs may be discussed when there is a significant risk of passing on a genetic condition.
    Before this, we consider the options for genetic counselling and preimplantation genetic testing.
How is the donor selected?
Donors undergo medical assessment, testing for transmissible infections, and a review of their personal and family medical and genetic history.
With anonymous donation, the donor’s identity is not disclosed. Reproductive material is tracked through identification codes and registers.
You will receive information about which non-identifying details may be provided and which criteria are used to match the donor with your profile.
How is the endometrium prepared?
Preparation may take place in a natural cycle with regular ovulation or through a hormonal protocol using oestrogen and progesterone.
We monitor the thickness and ultrasound appearance of the endometrium and how it responds to treatment.
Once progesterone has been started, the timing of embryo transfer is planned precisely according to the stage of embryo development.

The Faces of Hope

Dr. Petra Makedonova

Specialist in reproductive medicine
20+ years of experience
See more

Dr. Dimitar Cvetkov, MD

Specialist in Reproductive Medicine / Medical Director
20+ years of experience
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Dr. Maya Popova

Chief Embryologist
15+ years of experience
See more

Consultation and Review of Previous Treatment

We begin with a detailed discussion of your medical and reproductive history.

We review previous stimulation cycles, egg retrievals, embryology results, embryo transfers, operations and diagnosed conditions.

We discuss why a donor programme is being considered, whether there are other medical options and what choosing a donor egg means for you and your family.

Medical Assessment Before Pregnancy

Not undergoing ovarian stimulation does not remove the need to prepare for a future pregnancy.

We assess the condition of the uterus and endometrium, your overall health and any factors that may affect pregnancy.

Depending on your medical history, an ultrasound scan, assessment of the uterine cavity, infection screening, cervical cytology, blood tests and consultations with other specialists may be recommended.

From Medical Assessment to Pregnancy Testing

How does the procedure work?

Preparation and Fertilisation

  • We review your medical and reproductive history.
  • We determine the appropriate donor programme.
  • We prepare the endometrium for the upcoming transfer.
  • The eggs are fertilised with sperm from the partner or from a donor.

Embryo Development and Transfer

  • The embryologists monitor the development of the resulting embryos.
  • A suitable embryo is selected according to the medical and laboratory plan.
  • The embryo is transferred into the uterine cavity through a thin catheter.
  • You receive instructions regarding your treatment and a date for a blood pregnancy test.

Results Depend on More Than One Factor

How do we assess the chances of pregnancy?

The donor’s age and reproductive health have a direct impact on the potential of the eggs. For this reason, outcomes are often better than with treatment using a patient’s own eggs in cases of severely diminished ovarian reserve or advanced reproductive age.

However, the outcome also depends on sperm quality, fertilisation, embryo development, the condition of the uterus and endometrium, and the patient’s overall health.

The patient’s age has less influence on the chromosomal potential of the embryo, but remains important for the safety of the pregnancy and the risk of complications.

What are the possible risks?

  • The procedure may not result in fertilisation, a suitable embryo, implantation or pregnancy.
  • Early pregnancy loss and ectopic pregnancy are possible.
  • Transferring more than one embryo increases the risk of multiple pregnancy.
  • Pregnancy with a donor egg may be associated with a higher risk of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia.

The Decision Also Has a Personal Dimension

  • The patient does not have a genetic connection to the future child through the egg.
  • The time needed to come to terms with this decision may be different for every woman or couple.
  • You can discuss questions relating to parenthood, relationships and the genetic connection with an appropriate specialist.
  • If needed, psychological support may be included before, during or after the donor procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Procedures

Intrauterine Insemination

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In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

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IVF with Donor Sperm

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