One of the many fertility treatments we offer at the DFW Center for Fertility and IVF is known as third-party reproduction. This has helped several couples who have had difficulty conceiving on their own and have tried several other options. Here is more information on this often effective alternative.
How Third Party Reproduction Works
Third-party reproduction is a technique that involves the donation of sperm, eggs or embryos by a third person. Another option is arranging for a surrogate to carry the pregnancy until birth.
Egg donors – An increasing number of women are donating their eggs in order to help others conceive via in vitro fertilization. After a healthy donor is identified, eggs are extracted and then donated. Sperm (which is either obtained from a donor or from the partner of the recipient of the eggs) is then used to fertilize the donated eggs, a process known as insemination. Females have the option of choosing a surrogate to carry embryos or having embryos implanted in their own uterus.
Sperm donation – This is another form of third-party reproduction that has proven to be an effective option. A male provides a sample of sperm, which is later used to inseminate eggs. This alternative is typically chosen when the male partner has an abnormality associated with either his reproductive system or his semen.
Embryo donation – This involves the transferring of embryos into the uterus of the recipient. The lining of the uterus (the endometrium) must be prepared through the use of fertility drugs in order for this option to work. The embryos are typically transferred through the use of a small catheter.
Surrogacy – There are many instances where a surrogate (also known as a gestational carrier) will carry an infertile couple’s baby to term in her womb. The parents’ eggs and sperm are used to fertilize the embryo, but donor eggs and sperm are sometimes.
If you would like more information on third-party reproduction options, please contact an Allen fertility expert with DFW Center for Fertility and IVF at 469-854-0305 or contact us online.
