If you're struggling to conceive and on the path to parenthood, looking to have a baby and are considering, planning or about to have fertility treatment like IVF, ICSI, Egg Donation, Sperm donation, Embryo donation treatment in Europe and in places like Spain, Greece and Czech Republic then you're in the right place.
I'm Emma Haslam and since the birth of our son in 2018, I have made it my mission to make fertility treatment more transparent, accessible, supported and affordable. I now help people around the world just like you to find a safe, best fit clinic and navigate fertility treatment in Europe. And since 2019 I have helped 100s of people around the world to make informed decisions that are right for them and to have fertility treatment in Europe and achieve their dreams of starting or expanding their families.
Navigating Egg and Sperm Donation Abroad: Essential Tips and Considerations
When considering egg and/or sperm donation abroad, there are several things you need to know and think about. I was completely confused and overwhelmed by all of this when I was doing this for myself. So let's get you started with these four simple steps.
Understanding Donation Options
The first step is to determine the type of treatment you're interested in: double donation, embryo adoption, embryo donation, egg donation, or sperm donation. Decide whether you prefer anonymous or non-anonymous donation. There are some countries that offer both. This is something that you need to understand properly so that you can make an informed decision before searching for a clinic. If you feel conflicted you may wish to seek advice from a donor implications counselor.
Country Selection
Once you've decided on the treatment type, think about the countries you're interested in having your fertility treatment and where you would like to have treatment like egg donation and check to see if they offer the type of donation treatment you require. Research the laws and regulations in those countries to ensure they meet your needs, are safe, and are ethical. Consider whether the destinations you are considering are likely to have egg or sperm donors that match you physically and/or your partner in terms of skin, hair, and eye colour.
Due Diligence and Clinic Research and selection
When researching clinics, ensure they are registered, well-regulated, and have rigorous recruitment, screening and selection processes in place and that donors are treated fairly and ethically. Also understand how donors are compensated for their time. Understand the clinic's policies and laws around the number of times a donor can donate and/or the number of families that can be conceived in that country and via that donor/s/ and about what information they can disclose about donors. This is crucial for making safe, informed, and ethical decisions. Also ascertain whether a fertility clinic would be using an egg or sperm bank or if this is being done internally.
Matching Process and Timeline
Be aware that while there might not be waiting lists for egg and/or sperm donation abroad, there is a matching process. The average waiting time from start to completion is about eight weeks, though it can vary. In the UK it can be up to two years for some people and some people cannot be matched to their ethnicity in the UK. During this time, you can plan your treatment, sort your medication, and prepare for the journey ahead.
I hope this provides helpful insights and considerations for starting your egg and/or sperm donation journey abroad. Download my free short guides for more information below and if you need personalized support, consider booking a PICK MY BRAIN call.
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