What is the difference between a surrogacy program with your own eggs and one with donated eggs?

If you are considering surrogacy, you have probably wondered about the difference between using your own eggs and using donated eggs. This decision can be key in your process of forming a family, so it is essential to clearly understand the differences between the two options.

Surrogacy with your own eggs

This process involves using the eggs of the future mother (intended mother). The procedure begins with ovarian stimulation using medication, followed by the retrieval of eggs for fertilization in a laboratory through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The resulting embryo is then transferred to the surrogate mother’s uterus.

Advantages

• Genetic connection: Maintains the genetic link between the intended mother and the baby.
• Less legal complexity: In some countries, the genetic link simplifies legal aspects.

Disadvantages

• Medical limitations: It is not always possible to use one’s own eggs due to age, illness, or fertility issues.
• Additional costs: May require ovarian stimulation treatments and additional medical procedures.

Surrogacy with egg donation

In this case, the eggs come from a carefully selected donor. These eggs are fertilized through IVF with the intended father’s sperm or a donor’s sperm, and then the resulting embryo is transferred to the surrogate mother.

Advantages

• High success rate: Donated eggs usually come from young, healthy women, significantly increasing the chances of success.
• Lower genetic risks: Donors undergo strict medical and genetic screening, reducing the risk of hereditary diseases.

Disadvantages

• No genetic connection: The intended mother will have no genetic link to the baby, which may require additional emotional support.
• Emotional complexity: Some parents may experience additional emotional challenges due to the lack of a direct genetic connection.

How are egg donors selected?

Donor selection is a rigorous process that includes detailed medical, psychological, and genetic testing. In addition, prospective parents can select specific characteristics, such as physical appearance, family history, and education.

Specialized companies such as Gestlife offer comprehensive guidance throughout this process, making the choice easier and providing peace of mind for parents.

Which option is best for me?

The decision depends entirely on your personal and medical situation. It is advisable to seek advice from medical and psychological professionals to make an informed decision that is in line with your specific circumstances.

Legal aspects

Legal aspects may vary depending on the country. In general, using your own eggs simplifies the legal process in some places, while the use of donated eggs may require additional documentation. Therefore, it is essential to seek specialized legal advice.

Emotional considerations

The emotional connection with the baby does not depend exclusively on the genetic link. Regardless of the choice, many intended parents experience strong emotional bonds based on love and parenting.

Conclusion

Both options are valid and successful in surrogacy processes. The most important thing is to carefully assess your medical, legal, and emotional needs, preferably with the support of experts such as those at Gestlife.

FAQs about the difference between own and donated eggs

– Which has a higher success rate, own eggs or donated eggs?
Generally, donated eggs have a higher success rate because they come from young, healthy women.

– Are there legal advantages to using your own eggs?
Yes, in some countries it facilitates legal procedures due to the genetic link.

– Can I choose specific characteristics of the donor?
Yes, it is possible to select specific physical, educational, and medical characteristics of the donor.

– Does the emotional connection change depending on the option chosen?
The emotional connection does not depend exclusively on the genetic link, but on the love and commitment of the parents.

– Which option is more economical?
Usually, using your own eggs may involve additional costs for necessary medical treatments.