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| Are Donated Eggs Safe? |
By:
AndiBeark |
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One of the most beneficial technologies in assisted reproductive technologies is the availability and use of donated eggs. For the donor, the process is safe, requires mild discomforts and a period of dedication to the process. For the egg recipient, the process is the same as if her own eggs were being used as in a frozen embryo transfer.
How are Egg Donors Screened?
Not every woman is a candidate for egg donation. First, a woman must complete an application which details the medical history, psychological background for herself and near relatives. Questionnaires also include questions about lifestyle such as smoking, alcohol and drug use as well as other questions that impact the health of the donor as well the eggs. Donors are generally within a narrow age range of 18-25, to reduce the risks of age related birth defects.
Donor Physical Exam
The donor also under goes a thorough physical exam to rule out any potential problems. These exams likely include:
• A pelvic exam to test for sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, AIDS, gonorrhea and Chlamydia.
• A blood test which tests for hepatitis B and C.
• Screening for inherited diseases that may look for Huntington's disease, cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, sickle cell anemia.
• Screening for family history of mental retardation, psychiatric problems, cancers or other health issues.
• Before donor eggs are considered, ovarian function is also determined.
Psychological Suitability of the Donor
Before an egg donor is considered, she must pass a psychological evaluation. Many women feel that becoming an egg donor is a something they would like to pursue. Upon further investigation, they may find that the process is more difficult then they had imagined or they had not fully considered all of the emotional aspects that may go with becoming an egg donor.
Physical Commitment
Many people wonder is the egg donation process is painful. Though not particularly painful, it can be difficult. From start to finish, it can take up to three months and includes hormone drugs and self injections. Once the eggs are ready to be retrieved, a fertility specialists with gather them using a needle which is passed through the vagina and inserted into the ovary. The donor may or may not feel a mild amount of soreness or discomfort for several days after the procedure, as well as some time of feeling tired from fertility drugs.
Recipient Safety
Any safety concerns for the egg recipient are generally centered on the transmission of infectious diseases. The egg donor process and handling of the eggs is strictly regulated by the FDA and the eggs must go through several screenings before they are permitted to be transferred to another person.
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Andi Beark has a passion for writing about health issues facing families. Houston IVF is recognized as a leader in infertility care and research. You will find a variety of fertility treatment options ranging from basic infertility diagnosis to Houston egg donors and IVF. Visit http://www.houstonivf.net/Services/ThirdPartyReproduction/DonorEggProgram.aspx to find out if the egg donor program is for you. |
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