The babies born to couples who have used donated embryos in their fertility journey are true gifts of life. Many of these couples have exhausted all avenues in their treatment without success before turning to donated embryos over adoption.
Becoming an embryo donor
The babies born to couples who have used donor embryos in their fertility journey are true gifts of life. For some couples these donor embryos are the only solution to achieving a pregnancy and having their own family.
All couples utilising IVF must contemplate the prospect of having embryos in storage, which they may not require themselves, once they have completed their family. When initially embarking on IVF these couples are asked to consider what their intentions are for any excess embryos. At present their options are limited to two choices – either dispose of the embryos or donate them to another couple. For many couples this is a very difficult decision to make and they may require time and counselling before an appropriate decision is made.
To donate embryos
Coupes wishing to donate their embryos must complete the following requirements before their embryos can be donated to another couple:
- Undertake psychological counselling with one of ur psychologists
- A series of blood tests for both partners
- Complete a comprehensive social, physcial and medical profile document
- Sign a lifestyle declaration
- Sign a consent form, which states that they agree to future identification when that child reaches 18 years and requests identification
Accessing donor embryos
The babies born to couples who have used donor embryos in their fertility journey are true gifts of life. For some couples these donor embryos are the only solution to achieving a pregnancy and having their own family.
Queensland Fertility Group offers a complete, professional and supportive Donor Embryo Program.
Why the program exists
All couples utilising IVF must contemplate the prospect of having embryos in storage, which they may not require themselves, once they have completed their family. When initially embarking on IVF these couples are asked to consider what their intentions are for any excess embryos. At present their options are limited to two choices – either dispose of the embryos or donate them to another couple. For many couples this is a very difficult decision to make and they may require time and counselling before an appropriate decision is made.
Who needs donated embryos?
Some couples may have both a female and male related problem causing their infertility. If this problem has been identified as poor egg quality and poor semen quality, then donated embryos may be the only option for them to become pregnant. Other couples, who have exhausted all avenues in their treatment without success, may turn to donated embryos rather than adoption.
To receive embryos
Couples wishing to receive donated embryos will be referred by their doctor to the donor program coordinators, who will place their names on a waiting list. When embryos become available for them they will be required to undergo psychological counselling before their doctor organizes a Frozen Embryo Transfer.
For more information on the donor embryo program please talk to your QFG doctor or our Donor Embryo Program Coordinators on 3839 1483.
