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Intended Parents

Embryo Donation and Surrogacy

How It Works and Is It Right for You?

Embryo donation opens doors for many hopeful parents, offering a way to experience the joys of parenthood when traditional IVF is not an option.

It’s a unique part of the assisted reproduction field, giving you the chance to have a child with the help of a donor embryo and a surrogate.

Have donated embryos and considering surrogacy? Speak with a professional now.

Embryo donation involves receiving an embryo that has been created through IVF by another couple. In some cases, the embryo is then implanted in a surrogate to carry the pregnancy, allowing intended parents to fulfill their dreams of building a family.

In this article, we’ll cover:

  • How embryo donation works in IVF and surrogacy
  • When to choose embryo donation
  • The costs and requirements for embryo donation

What Is Embryo Donation?

Embryo donation is a process in which a couple or individual donates their remaining embryos to another couple or individual after completing their IVF treatment.  

Often, this embryo may have been created with the donor couple’s gametes (sperm and egg) or even through donor egg or sperm, making it a flexible option for diverse family-building needs.

For couples experiencing infertility or for those who have chosen surrogacy, embryo donation provides a unique opportunity to move forward.

Here’s how it typically works:

Many donors opt for anonymous donation, while others choose an open or semi-open relationship with the recipient’s family. Consulting with a counselor and lawyer is often recommended to address the emotional and legal aspects of using donated embryos.

Find an embryo donation clinic now

When Is Embryo Donation a Good Option?

Embryo donation might be a suitable choice if:

  • IVF Alone Hasn\'t Worked

    If previous IVF attempts haven’t been successful due to embryo quality receiving a donated embryo can offer a higher chance of pregnancy.

  • Medical or Genetic Conditions

    For individuals who carry genetic conditions, embryo donation provides an option to have a child without passing on those risks.

  • Affordability

    The cost of embryo donation is typically cheaper than a full IVF cycle.

  • Surrogacy

    For those who need a surrogate to carry the pregnancy, embryo donation can be an accessible option, especially for those without viable embryos.

    Speak with your fertility specialist to see if embryo donation might be right for you.

    The Cost of Embryo Donation

    The cost of embryo donation is typically around $2,500-$4,000 but can vary widely depending on the clinic, the agency and any additional services required. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:

    • Agency or Clinic Fees

      Expect to pay $5,000 to $15,000 for the matching, screening, and counseling process.

    • Embryo Transfer Costs

      Fees for transferring the embryo, especially if a surrogate is involved can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per cycle.

    • Legal and Counseling Costs

      Legal and psychological counseling fees may be $1,000 to $2,500.

    • Surrogacy Costs

      The cost of surrogacy can range from $50,000 to $100,000, including surrogate compensation, medical expenses and insurance.

      Some clinics and programs offer financial assistance or financing options to help offset these costs.

      Requirements for Embryo Donation

      Certain medical and legal requirements are typically necessary to qualify for embryo donation:

      • Medical Screening

        Donors are screened for genetic, infectious and other health factors per ASRM guidelines for gamete and embryo donation.

      • Psychological Counseling

        Counseling ensures that both donors and recipients are prepared emotionally for the process.

      • Legal Agreements

        Contracts must outline the rights of both parties, whether anonymous or open, to ensure that all parties understand their roles and responsibilities.

      • Eligibility and Health of Intended Parents

        Recipients may also need to meet specific health criteria to qualify for embryo donation, ensuring that the recipient or surrogate is prepared for a healthy pregnancy.

        Check with your clinic or agency about the specific requirements for embryo donation, as these can vary.

        Choosing Embryo Donation [What to Consider]

        Because the embryo comes from another couple, you won’t have a genetic connection to your child. For many, the chance to experience pregnancy or the opportunity for surrogacy outweighs this factor, but it’s important to consider this deeply.

        You may want to consider the future dynamics, including whether you want an open or closed donation. This is particularly important for discussing with your child in the future, if desired.

        Clinics typically provide a comprehensive health history of the donors, which can offer some insight into your child’s health.

        While embryo donation does not provide a genetic connection, it allows you to create a loving family environment. By understanding the costs, requirements and emotional factors involved, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your family-building goals.

        Have embryos ready?  Contact a professional to find a surrogacy match now.

        Male and Female couple smiling with surrogate mother
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