Get Started

Intended Parents

What Can You Choose About Donor Embryos?

Your Options Explained

Choosing donor embryos can be a life-changing decision for couples hoping to grow their family. When using donor embryos, you’ll have the chance to review embryo donor profiles, which typically provide details about the donor’s physical characteristics, ethnicity, religious affiliation, lifestyle and much more.

If you want to explore your family-building options with a professional, contact us online now.

Understanding what you can choose in a donor embryo profile can help you feel more confident as you begin your family-building journey.

This guide covers everything you need to know about:

  • Donor embryo profiles

  • How to choose a donor embryo

  • What you can choose in an embryo donor

  • Moving forward after choosing an embryo donor

    What is a Donor Embryo Profile?

    Donor embryo profiles are collections of information about each potential donor, detailing key personal and medical aspects that intended parents may consider.

    Typically, these profiles include physical traits, medical and genetic background, ethnicity and lifestyle choices, and in some cases, details about the donor’s educational background or hobbies.

    Each fertility clinic or embryo bank may have its own approach to sharing donor profiles, so you may want to explore multiple sources to find a donor that aligns with your preferences and values.

    What Do Donor Embryo Profiles Include?

    One of the most common considerations for intended parents is selecting a donor whose physical traits align with their own or match their hopes for their future child. Traits such as hair color, eye color, height and even complexion are often provided in donor profiles. 

    For families seeking a resemblance or continuity of physical traits, selecting a donor with similar features can offer a comforting sense of familiarity.

    Some intended parents prefer donors from similar ethnic or racial backgrounds, which may create a stronger feeling of cultural connection. Others may prioritize diversity or choose based on other factors entirely. 

    Many embryo donor profiles include detailed information on the donor’s ethnic background, allowing parents to decide based on what feels most aligned with their cultural identity.

    In donor embryo selection, parents often have the option to choose between known and anonymous donors. With a known donor, there may be the opportunity for future contact or a relationship with the donor, which can be meaningful for families who want to provide their child with a connection to their genetic roots.

    An anonymous donor, on the other hand, may provide a different level of privacy. This choice depends on what feels best for you and your family and what you envision for your future.

    For parents with specific religious or spiritual beliefs, choosing a donor who shares similar values may be particularly meaningful. Some profiles include information about the donor’s religion or beliefs, offering another layer of connection for families who feel this is an important aspect of their family identity.

    Some donor embryo profiles may also include details about the donor’s lifestyle, hobbies, or values. This information can help parents select a donor with shared interests or values, which may deepen the emotional connection to their future child. 

    For example, knowing that a donor values creativity or has a passion for nature may resonate with intended parents who prioritize these qualities.

    If you’re considering surrogacy or want guidance in finding the right donor embryo match, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for personalized support.

    Choosing the Right Embryo Donor for Your Family’s Needs

    When reviewing donor embryo profiles, think about what qualities are most meaningful to you and what traits you feel would connect you to your future child.

    For example, for some families, it may be essential to find a donor with similar physical traits, while for others, shared cultural background or religious values may be more significant.

    How to Move Forward With a Donor Embryo

    It’s important to recognize that the bond between parent and child goes far beyond genetics. Although shared traits may provide a comforting starting point, the love, dedication and care that you bring to your journey will form the strongest foundation for a lifelong bond with your child.

    Genetics may play a role, but your bond with your child will be defined by shared experiences, memories and the life you build together.

    Whether you connect with a donor through shared traits or choose a donor based on other qualities, know that your connection with your future child will be based on more than genetics. Your unique story, love and care will be what truly defines your family.

    To explore how you can use donor embryos to build your family through surrogacy, speak with a professional now.

    Male and Female couple smiling with surrogate mother
    Is Surrogacy Right For Me?

    Take our 2 minute quiz to find out

    Get Started