Donor Conception
What is Donor Conception?
Donor conception is a fertility option that allows individuals and couples to have a child using donated eggs, sperm, or embryos. This treatment is ideal for those who are unable to conceive with their own eggs or sperm due to medical conditions, genetic concerns, or personal circumstances. Donor conception provides a pathway to parenthood for many, including same-sex couples, single women, and those experiencing infertility.
Who is Donor Conception For?
Donor conception can be a suitable choice for:
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Women with low ovarian reserve or premature ovarian failure
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Men with low sperm count or poor sperm quality
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Individuals with genetic conditions that may affect a child’s health
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Same-sex couples looking to start a family
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Single women wishing to have a child
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Couples who have experienced repeated IVF failure
This option provides hope and opportunity where other treatments may not be effective.
Dr Shabana Bora, MBBS, MRCOG
Donor conception opens doors to parenthood, offering hope and possibility where it may have once seemed out of reach.
The Procedure
The donor conception process is carefully managed and includes several key steps:
Selection of Donor
We help you choose the right donor based on medical history, physical characteristics, and personal preferences. Donors are rigorously screened for health and genetic conditions.
Treatment Planning
A personalised treatment plan is created, whether using donor sperm, eggs, or embryos, depending on your specific needs.
Fertilisation
Donor eggs or sperm are fertilised through IVF or ICSI, creating healthy embryos for transfer.
Embryo Transfer
Once the embryos have developed, one or more are transferred to the uterus, with any remaining healthy embryos available for freezing.
Pregnancy Testing
A pregnancy test is performed around two weeks after the embryo transfer to confirm the outcome.
What to Expect
Donor conception is a safe and supportive option that has helped many families grow. The process is straightforward and closely monitored by our experienced team to ensure your comfort and peace of mind. We provide guidance and support throughout your journey, helping you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Common Questions
Is donor conception safe? Yes, donors are carefully screened for medical, genetic, and infectious conditions to ensure the highest level of safety.
Can I meet the donor? In the UK, donors remain anonymous until the child turns 18, at which point they can choose to access identifiable information.
Will the baby look like me? We work with you to select a donor with physical characteristics that closely match your own where possible.
Can I use donor eggs or sperm with IVF? Yes, donor conception is often combined with IVF to maximise the chances of a successful pregnancy.
What if I want to use a known donor? We can guide you through the process of using a known donor if that is your preference.
Your Next Steps
If you are considering donor conception and want to explore your options, book a consultation with us today. Our compassionate team is here to provide personalised guidance and support, helping you every step of the way towards building your family.