Egg donor options

Some women are unable to conceive using their own eggs. There are many reasons, some of which include:

• There is a risk of passing on a genetic condition
• They have gone through premature menopause
• They have had chemotherapy or a serious illness that has affected your ovarian functions
• IVF has indicated poor egg quality

The impacts on people who decide to have a baby using donated eggs or sperm is significant for all involved, including the people who donate.

Laws need to be taken into consideration also and in Victoria, the procedures are regulated under the Assisted Reproductive Treatment Act 2008.

‘A person must not carry out a treatment procedure using gametes, or an embryo formed from gametes, produced by a donor if the person knows the treatment procedure may result in more than 10 women having children who are genetic siblings, including the donor and any current or former partner of the donor.’

It is an offence under the Assisted Reproductive Treatment Act 2008 to intentionally receive or offer to receive payment for donation other than travel and medical expenses actually incurred.

One option is to go overseas where donor egg options can be anonymous. Over the last few years, there has been a significant rise in Australian women travelling overseas.

Dr Sgroi has established relationships with clinics in Greece, South Africa and Spain and can assist you in finding and facilitating egg donors.

If you decide to go overseas, Dr Sgoi will manage your cycle here in Australia, ensuring you are ready for the donor egg transfer overseas.

Quite often a sister or a friend will help you create your family. If you do not know anyone who can help, there are egg donation programs. Melbourne IVF has a program that recruits local donors between the ages of 25-35. There are around 5- 10 donors available per year.

Donors cannot be paid for donating their eggs. Medical expenses can be reimbursed.

All donors consent to their identifying details including name, date of birth and last known address being released to the person created when they turn 18. Donors complete a donor profile giving some information about themselves including why they donated, their hobbies, personality, appearance, and whether they are open to being contacted before the child is an adult. Potential recipients are usually able to read these profiles and, if possible, choose which donor they prefer.

Other options include finding a donor online and advertising for an egg donor that you do not know. You can find out more about both of these options here.

Whether you are considering going overseas or staying in Australia, Dr Joe can discuss all the options and help you make the decision that works best for you.