Embryo Donation vs. Embryo Adoption: What’s the difference?
Different organizations use different words… is there really a difference between embryo donation and embryo adoption?? Embryo donation refers to the act of individuals or couples who have created embryos through in vitro fertilization (IVF) but no longer desire them for their own reproductive purposes, choosing to donate those embryos to another person or couple. […]
Can recipients ever claim child support?
In its simplest form, an embryo donation agreement establishes embryo ownership and parentage. The embryo donor relinquishes any rights or responsibilities to any children born via the donated embryos and recipients accept ALL parental rights and responsibilities. These parental responsibilities include, but are not limited to, child support, medical care, and guardianship.
Can my recipient/donor in an open donation “ghost” me?
Embryo donation relationships are built on mutual trust. Establishing a foundation for interaction expectations at the outset will help to ensure that no one is disappointed or overwhelmed. Families can agree at the outset how often they wish to engage, if at all, until the offspring decide that they want to know one another. The […]
Decoding embryo grading, and why it matters
Decoding Embryo Grading… and Why it Matters 4AA, 3BA, 6BC…what does it all mean? While embryo grading can feel like deciphering a secret code, it is actually a relatively simple system to learn. When you understand the code, you’ll have a better grasp of the quality of embryos you are either donating or receiving. […]
Raising a donor-conceived child: What we’ve learned from the donor conceived community
When raising a donor-conceived child, starting donor conception conversations from a very early age can be beneficial for the child’s emotional well-being and understanding of their identity, and make it easier on parents to tell before it becomes an awkward conversation. Here are some key considerations: Trust your children’s ability to grasp the concept from […]
As an Intended Parent, what should I consider for matching with a donor?
When considering a potential donor family, many start with the goal to increasing probability for success, followed by fit with their family, which can take many forms. We’ll review a few of those considerations here: Embryo quality: Learn and understand the embryos available for donation, by freeze day, expansion level, and grade, as well as […]
Why do I need a legal agreement? What is it for?
Embryo donation falls under quasi property law with a significant family law component. The legal agreement is the official document that actually transfers all parental rights and responsibilities from the donor to the recipient. Beyond that, the agreement works out intentions between the parties regarding the donation. It is beneficial for both parties! Key elements […]
What is psychoeducational counseling, and is it required?
Embryo donation or receipt is a complex decision that involves emotional, psychological, and ethical considerations for everyone involved. Embryo donation psychoeducation with a trained third-party reproductive mental health provider aims to address these various aspects and provide information, guidance, emotional support and resources to help individuals or couples navigate the unique challenges associated with embryo […]
Embryo Donation vs Traditional Adoption – Similar, Yet Vastly Different
Embryo donation and traditional adoption are two distinct processes with unique considerations for the offspring, parents, and the individuals involved. Let’s walk through each aspect: Fundamentals: Embryo Donation: In embryo donation, the offspring is conceived through a frozen embryo transfer using donated embryos. Embryos are donated via contract law. Offspring carry the genetics of the […]