Embryo Donation: A Complete Guide for Prospective Parents

For individuals and couples facing infertility, the journey to parenthood can take many forms. Embryo donation represents one of several family-building options available through assisted reproductive technology (ART), offering unique advantages and considerations that deserve careful examination.

This comprehensive guide provides evidence-based information to help you understand embryo donation, compare it objectively with alternative paths to parenthood, and make informed decisions that align with your family's values and circumstances.

What Is Embryo Donation?

Embryo donation is a form of third-party reproduction in which frozen embryos are transferred to a recipient who did not provide the genetic material[1]. These embryos are created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), using either donor sperm and eggs, or from couples who completed their own fertility treatment and chose to donate remaining embryos to others[2][3].

Two Types of Donor Embryos

Embryos from Completed IVF Cycles. Worldwide practice

When individuals or couples undergo IVF, they often create more embryos than needed for their family-building goals. Once their family is complete, they may choose to donate these remaining frozen embryos to others experiencing infertility[3][4]. According to the CDC, embryos donated from previously successful IVF cycles are often of high quality, as they come from patients who achieved pregnancy[5].

Embryos Created Specifically for Donation. Russia-specific practice

Some fertility programs create embryos specifically for donation using gametes (eggs and sperm) from screened donors. At NGC Clinic, our donor embryo program uses this approach, creating embryos from certified donor gametes that meet strict health and age requirements established by regulatory authorities[6][7]. The cost of treatment starts at €2,390.

Who Should Consider Embryo Donation?

Embryo donation may be appropriate for various situations:

Medical Indications

Complete infertility in both partners: When neither partner can produce viable gametes
Severe male factor infertility combined with female infertility: Issues affecting both egg and sperm quality
Genetic disorders: Couples who both carry serious genetic conditions and wish to avoid passing them to offspring
Repeated IVF failure: Multiple unsuccessful cycles with own gametes
Premature ovarian insufficiency or diminished ovarian reserve
Recurrent pregnancy loss due to chromosomal or genetic factors
Social Considerations
Single individuals by choice who prefer donated embryos
Age-related factors: Women over 42-43 where egg quality significantly limits success with own eggs[8]

Making an Informed Choice: Comparing Your Options

One of the most important steps in your decision-making process is understanding how embryo donation compares to other family-building paths. Below, we provide objective comparisons to help you evaluate what best aligns with your priorities.

Embryo Donation vs. Traditional Adoption

Factor	Embryo Donation	Donor Egg + Partner Sperm	Donor Sperm + Own Eggs
Genetic Connection	No genetic link to either parent	One parent (father) genetically related	One parent (mother) genetically related
Medical Procedures for Recipient	Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) only – less invasive	Full IVF cycle with hormone therapy for synchronization	IUI or IVF, depending on fertility status
Typical Success Rate Per Transfer	55% - 65%	50% - 62% (using fresh eggs from a donor under 35)	Varies significantly by woman's age and procedure (IUI/IVF)
Average Timeline to Transfer	Embryos are ready; process takes 2-6 months total[10]	3-6 months for donor matching and cycle preparation	1-3 months after donor selection
Number of Attempts	Often multiple embryos available from the same donation	May require multiple egg retrievals from the donor	Typically requires multiple IUI or IVF attempts
Key Psychological Consideration	Neither parent is genetically related; can equalize the parental relationship	Asymmetric genetic relationship (father only)	Asymmetric genetic relationship (mother only)

Key Insight from Research: Harvard Health reports that embryo donation offers shorter wait times and lower costs compared to adoption, while allowing the experience of pregnancy. However, adoption guarantees bringing a child home, whereas embryo donation requires successful pregnancy achievement[11].

Embryo Donation vs. Donor Egg or Sperm Only

Factor	Embryo Donation	Traditional Adoption
Pregnancy Experience	Yes – recipient carries pregnancy and gives birth	No – child already born
Timeline	Typically 1 month from decision to transfer[9][10]	Often 2+ years for infant adoption[11]
Prenatal Control	Full control over prenatal environment, nutrition, healthcare	No control – child's prenatal history may be unknown
Wait Times	Embryos readily available in most programs	Long waiting lists (50-75 families per infant)[14]
Bonding Opportunity	Bond begins during pregnancy	Bond begins after birth
Success Rate	42-50% live birth rate per transfer[5][15]	Nearly 100% (adoption process completes with placement)
Legal Complexity	Varies by state; generally straightforward with proper contracts[16]	Complex; home studies, background checks required
Disclosure Considerations	Parents decide whether/when to tell child	Children know they were adopted; openness standard practice

Research Perspective: A 2021 study published in Fertility & Sterility found that from 2004-2019, donated embryo transfers in the United States more than tripled, demonstrating growing acceptance of this option[19]. The study reported a 43.5% live birth rate per transfer during 2016-2019.

Step-by-Step: The Embryo Donation Process

Understanding each stage helps reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Meet with a reproductive endocrinologist who will:

Review your medical history and infertility diagnosis
Explain the embryo donation process in detail
Discuss success rates based on your specific situation
Answer questions about the program

Why This Matters: A thorough consultation ensures embryo donation is medically and emotionally appropriate for your situation.

Step 2: Medical Screening

Both partners (if applicable) undergo comprehensive evaluation[6][7]:

Infectious disease testing: HIV, hepatitis B & C, syphilis, and other STIs
Blood type and Rh factor determination
Uterine assessment: Ultrasound and sometimes hysteroscopy to evaluate uterine cavity
Endocrine evaluation: Hormone levels to ensure optimal conditions for pregnancy
General health assessment: Blood pressure, BMI, overall physical health

Why This Matters: Screening protects your health and optimizes conditions for successful embryo implantation.

Step 3: Psychological Counseling (Highly Recommended)

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) strongly encourages psychological counseling for all embryo donation recipients[20][21]. Topics typically covered:

Processing emotions around genetic vs. gestational parenthood
Disclosure decisions: whether, when, and how to tell your child about their origins
Preparing for future conversations with your child
Managing family and social responses
Addressing any grief related to infertility

Why This Matters: Research shows that parents who receive counseling feel more prepared for disclosure conversations and report greater confidence in their parenting role[22][23].

Step 4: Donor Embryo Selection

At NGC Clinic, patients access an online database with detailed donor profiles, including:

Physical characteristics (height, weight, hair/eye color, ethnicity)
Medical history for multiple generations
Educational background
Personal interests and talents
Photos (in some programs)

Important: All embryos in our program are created using donor gametes from individuals under age 35 who have passed comprehensive medical, genetic, and psychological screening per FDA and ASRM guidelines[6][7].

Step 5: Legal Agreements

Before proceeding, legal documentation establishes:

Transfer of parental rights and responsibilities
Relinquishment of any claims by genetic parents
Acknowledgment that the birth mother is the legal parent
Agreement on level of contact (if any) between families

Why This Matters: Proper legal contracts protect all parties and provide clarity for the child's future.

Step 6: Endometrial Preparation and Transfer

The recipient's uterus is prepared using medications (typically estrogen and progesterone) to create optimal conditions for implantation. When the endometrium is ready:

Embryos are thawed in the laboratory
Embryologist assesses embryo quality
1 embryo is transferred to the uterus via a thin catheter
The procedure is quick, painless, and typically doesn't require anesthesia

Success Rates: National CDC data reports a 42.3% live birth rate per donated embryo transfer[5]. At NGC Clinic, our rates reach 50% per untested blastocyst and 62% per tested blastocyst.

Step 7: Pregnancy Test and Follow-Up

Approximately 10-14 days after transfer, a blood test measures hCG levels to determine pregnancy. If pregnant, early ultrasounds monitor development, and you'll transition to regular prenatal care around 8-10 weeks.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Regulatory Framework

United States: The FDA regulates embryo donation as human cells and tissue, requiring donor screening for infectious diseases[7]. The ASRM provides additional ethical guidelines[20][21]. Laws vary significantly by state regarding:

Parental rights establishment
Birth certificate procedures
Disclosure requirements (none currently mandate disclosure)
Donor anonymity protections

Russia (NGC Clinic): Embryo donation is regulated under the Federal Law on Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Key provisions:

All donors must be under age 35
Anonymous donation is standard practice
The birth mother is recognized as the legal mother
Comprehensive donor screening is mandated by Healthcare Ministry Decree №803-N

Important Note: In Russia, approximately 99% of embryo donations use embryos created specifically from donor gametes, which is considered the safest approach as the clinic maintains full control over donor screening and compliance.

Ethical Dimensions

Anonymity vs. Identity-Release Donation

Globally, practices vary[24][25]:

Anonymous/Closed Donation: No identifying information shared; most common in many countries including Russia
Semi-Open Donation: Non-identifying information exchanged; possible mediated communication
Open Donation: Full identities known; families may have direct contact

Important Consideration: With advances in DNA testing and ancestry websites, true anonymity may no longer be guaranteed long-term[26][27]. Children born from donated embryos may eventually identify genetic relatives through commercial genetic testing services like 23andMe or Ancestry.com.

Rights and Responsibilities

Once legal agreements are complete:

Genetic donors have no legal rights or obligations regarding resulting children
Birth parents have full parental rights and responsibilities
Children have no legal claim to genetic donors' estates or support
However, ethical considerations around disclosure and the child's right to know their genetic origins continue to be debated[20][28]

Success Rates and Costs

Success Rates

National U.S. data from the CDC (2021)[5]:

42.3% live birth rate per donated embryo transfer
Success rates are comparable to fresh egg donation from young donors
Multiple embryos from the same donor pair offer several opportunities for pregnancy

Factors Affecting Success:

Age of the egg donor at time of embryo creation (younger = better outcomes)
Quality of embryos (blastocyst stage preferred)
Embryo testing status (PGT-A tested embryos have higher success rates)
Recipient uterine health and endometrial receptivity
Number of embryos transferred

At NGC Clinic: Embryo donation starts at €2,390, making it one of the most cost-effective paths to parenthood through ART, with high success rates.

Psychological Aspects: Preparing for Your Journey

Emotional Considerations

Research shows that parents of donor-conceived children experience similar levels of warmth, involvement, and positive parenting as other families[29][30]. However, unique psychological aspects warrant attention:

Common Feelings:

Grief over loss of genetic connection
Anxiety about how to explain origins to child
Concerns about bonding
Questions about "real" parenthood
Worry about how family/society will react

Evidence-Based Reassurance: A 2024 study examining children aged 3-7 born via embryo donation found no significant differences in psychological adjustment or parenting styles compared to naturally conceived children[29]. Lack of genetic connection did not negatively impact child well-being or parent-child relationships.

The Disclosure Decision: Should You Tell Your Child?

This is one of the most significant decisions embryo donation parents face. Research and professional guidance have evolved dramatically on this issue.

Historical Context: Decades ago, parents were advised to never disclose. Today, the consensus has shifted dramatically.

Current Professional Recommendations:

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) states: "Disclosure to donor-conceived persons of the use of donor gametes or embryos in their conception is strongly encouraged, while ultimately the choice of recipient parents"[20].

Why Disclosure Is Encouraged:[20][22][23][28]

Child's Right to Know: Many ethicists argue children have a fundamental interest in knowing their biological origins
Family Honesty: Secrecy can create emotional distance and compromise family functioning
Accidental Discovery: DNA testing makes accidental disclosure increasingly likely
Psychological Well-Being: Research suggests early disclosure (before age 7) leads to better adjustment than later discovery
Medical Information: Genetic health information may become relevant

Research Findings:

Studies show that 39-83% of parents still choose not to disclose[22]
Parents who disclose typically report doing so between birth and age 7[22][23]
Children told early show no negative psychological effects and often view it as simply part of their story[30][31]
Late disclosure (adolescence or adulthood) can cause feelings of betrayal and identity crisis

How to Tell: Practical Guidance

If you choose to disclose, experts recommend[22][23][32]:

When to Start:

Begin age-appropriate conversations early (ages 2-4)
Use simple, positive language
Make it an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time revelation

How to Frame It:

Focus on how much you wanted them
Emphasize the science helped you become parents
Use terms like "special help" or "generous donors"
Children's books about donor conception can help (many available)

Sample Language for Young Children: "We wanted a baby so much, but mommy's/daddy's body needed special help. Kind people called donors gave us a gift - tiny cells - that helped create you. We are your parents, and we love you so much."

Resources:

Donor Conception Network: "Telling and Talking" booklets[33]
Age-appropriate children's books about donor conception
Support groups for donor-conceived families

Research on Non-Disclosure

For parents who choose not to tell, it's important to understand:

56% of embryo donation mothers in one study had decided against disclosure[34]
Many cite desire for privacy and normalcy
However, experts caution that secrets can create emotional barriers
Consider that the child may discover through DNA testing regardless of your decision

How NGC Clinic Can Help: Our Comprehensive Approach

At NGC Clinic, we understand that choosing embryo donation is a significant decision requiring expert guidance, emotional support, and exceptional medical care.

Our Unique Advantages

Extensive Donor Database

Over 400 donor embryos available
Detailed profiles with comprehensive medical screening
Multiple embryos often available from same donor pair, offering possibility of genetic siblings

Industry-Leading Success Rates

50% pregnancy rate per untested blastocyst transfer
62% pregnancy rate per PGT-A tested blastocyst transfer
Significantly above national average of 42.3%[5]

Comprehensive Donor Screening

All embryos created from donors under age 35
Extensive medical, genetic, and infectious disease testing per Russian Healthcare Ministry standards
Full compliance with international best practices (ASRM guidelines)

Transparent, Ethical Approach

Clear legal framework protecting all parties
Honest discussion of all options and outcomes
No hidden fees or surprise costs

Support Throughout Your Journey

Ongoing support through preparation, pregnancy and beyond

International Expertise

Experienced, internationally recognized reproductive specialists
Published research and cutting-edge techniques
State-of-the-art embryology laboratory

Final Thoughts

Embryo donation represents a remarkable convergence of medical science, ethical consideration, and human generosity. It offers individuals and couples facing infertility a path to experience pregnancy, birth, and parenthood when other options may not be viable.

Like all family-building choices, embryo donation comes with unique joys and challenges. The decision to pursue this path is deeply personal and should be made with full information, careful reflection, and professional guidance.

Whether you choose embryo donation, another form of assisted reproduction, or traditional adoption, what matters most is the love, commitment, and nurturing environment you provide for your child. Research consistently demonstrates that children thrive not because of genetic connection, but because of stable, loving, responsive parenting.

As you navigate this journey, remember: you are not alone. Thousands of families have walked this path before you, and expert support is available at every step.

Let us make your dream come true!

Our team stood at the origins of reproductive medicine in Russia and is known all over the world as the highest-level professionals.

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FAQs

Will my child look like me?

Children inherit physical traits from their genetic parents (the donors). While they may not resemble you physically, appearance is only one small part of parent-child bonding. Personality, interests, and values are significantly shaped by environment and upbringing.

Will I bond with a child who isn't genetically related to me?

Research consistently shows that parental bonding is not dependent on genetic connection[29][30]. Parents of adopted children and donor-conceived children report strong, loving bonds. The experience of pregnancy can actually enhance bonding for embryo donation mothers[11].

What if my child wants to find their genetic parents someday?

This depends on the type of donation. With anonymous donation (most common in Russia), identifying information isn't available. With open or semi-open arrangements, some level of contact may be possible. DNA testing may allow children to identify genetic relatives regardless of original donation type[26][27]. Prepare for this possibility and frame it as a natural curiosity, not rejection of you as parents.

How do I explain this to my family?

This is a personal choice. Some families share the information openly; others keep it private. Consider:

How will secrecy affect family dynamics?
What if your child learns from others before you tell them?
Can you count on family members to respect your disclosure decisions?

Can we meet the donor family?

This depends on the program and type of donation. Anonymous programs (like NGC Clinic's) don't allow contact. Open embryo donation programs facilitate communication between genetic and recipient families. Each model has pros and cons[35].

What are the risks of embryo donation compared to using own eggs?
A: Medical risks are similar to standard FET procedures. The main differences are:

Lower: No ovarian stimulation needed (less invasive, lower medication burden)
Similar: Pregnancy and birth risks are the same
Unique: Limited genetic history compared to knowing your own family genetics

How long do embryos stay frozen?

Embryos can remain viable after decades of cryopreservation. Research shows no decline in success rates based on storage duration[36]. Proper laboratory practices ensure embryo integrity.

What happens if the first transfer doesn't work?

Many embryo donation programs offer multiple embryos from the same donor couple, allowing several transfer attempts. Each transfer has independent success odds. Discuss with your clinic how many embryos are available and plan accordingly.

Is embryo donation ethically acceptable in my religion?

Religious perspectives vary widely. Many faiths accept embryo donation as a compassionate way to build families and give existing embryos a chance at life. However, some religious traditions have concerns. Consult with your religious advisor to understand your faith's specific teachings.

Scientific References

American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2018). Informing offspring of their conception by gamete or embryo donation: An Ethics Committee opinion. Fertility and Sterility, 109(4), 601-605. https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/ethics-opinions/
Practice Committee of ASRM. (2021). Guidance regarding gamete and embryo donation. Fertility and Sterility, 115(6), 1395-1410. https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(21)00078-9/fulltext
Reproduct iveFacts.org. (2024). Third-party reproduction: Sperm, egg, and embryo donation. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/
Purl Adoptions. (2022). The basics of embryo adoption and embryo donation. https://www.purladoptions.com/learn/adoption-advisor/the-basics-of-embryo-adoption-or-embryo-donation/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). 2021 Assisted Reproductive Technology Fertility Clinic and National Summary Report. https://www.cdc.gov/art/reports/
Practice Committee of ASRM. (2024). Gamete and embryo donation guidance. Fertility and Sterility, 122(5), 799-813. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38970576/
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). Regulatory framework for human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products. https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/tissue-tissue-products
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2014). Female age-related fertility decline. Committee Opinion No. 589. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 123(3), 719-721.
Donor Nexus. (2024). Embryo adoption vs. embryo donation: Key differences. https://donornexus.com/embryo-adoption
Elite IVF. (2024). Embryo adoption guide. https://www.elite-ivf.com/embryo-adoption/
Wexler, S. (2022). Paths to parenthood: Receiving an embryo donation. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/paths-to-parenthood-receiving-an-embryo-donation-202202032682
Donor Nexus. (2025). Breaking down the costs: Embryo adoption vs. embryo donation. https://blog.donornexus.com/donor-embryo-cost
American Adoptions. (2024). How much does adoption cost? https://www.americanadoptions.com/adopt/adoption_cost
Purl Adoptions. (2022). The basics of embryo adoption and embryo donation. https://www.purladoptions.com/learn/adoption-advisor/
Embryo Adoption Awareness Center. (2013). Success rates in embryo donation and adoption. https://embryoadoption.org/2013/11/success-rates-in-embryo-donation-and-adoption/
ASRM Legal Professional Group. Gamete donation contracts and legal considerations. https://connect.asrm.org/lpg/resources/contracts/gamete-donation
Cofertility. (2024). Adoption vs egg donation: How do I choose? https://www.cofertility.com/family-learn/adoption-vs-egg-donation
CDC. (2024). ART success rates by procedure type and age. National ART Surveillance System.
Hipp, H.S., et al. (2021). Embryo donation: National trends and outcomes, 2004–2019. Fertility and Sterility, 115(4), 1083-1090. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9975076/
ASRM Ethics Committee. (2018). Informing offspring of their conception by gamete or embryo donation. Fertility and Sterility, 109(4), 601-605. https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/ethics-opinions/informing-offspring-of-their-conception-by-gamete-or-embryo-donation-an-ethics-committee-opinion-2018/
ASRM. (2013). Recommendations for gamete and embryo donation: A committee opinion. Fertility and Sterility, 99(1), 47-62. https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(12)02256-X/fulltext
Jadva, V., et al. (2021). Parents' experiences telling children conceived by gamete and embryo donation about their genetic origins. F&S Reports, 2(4), 371-381. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8655422/
Jadva, V., et al. (2021). Parents' experiences telling children conceived by gamete and embryo donation about their genetic origins. Fertility & Sterility Reports, 2(4). https://www.fertstertreports.org/article/S2666-3341(21)00098-2/fulltext
Blyth, E., & Frith, L. (2023). Parents' disclosure to their donor-conceived children in the last 10 years: A narrative review. Human Reproduction Update. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11215159/
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National Embryo Donation Center. (2024). Embryo donation at the NEDC. https://www.embryodonation.org/donation/
Harper, J.C., et al. (2016). The end of donor anonymity: How genetic testing is likely to drive anonymous gamete donation out of business. Human Reproduction, 31(6), 1135-1140.
ReproductiveFacts.org. (2024). Gamete and embryo donation: Deciding whether to tell. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/fact-sheets-and-infographics/gamete-and-embryo-donation-deciding-whether-to-tell/
Vatankhah, M., et al. (2024). The impact of embryo donation technology on child psychological adjustment and parenting styles: A historical cohort study. International Journal of Reproductive BioMedicine, 22(8). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11744203/
Golombok, S., et al. (2011). Children conceived by gamete donation: Psychological adjustment and mother-child relationships at age 7. Journal of Family Psychology, 25(2), 230-239. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3075381/
Blake, L., et al. (2010). 'Daddy ran out of tadpoles': How parents tell their children that they are donor conceived, and what their 7-year-olds understand. Human Reproduction, 25(10), 2527-2534.
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Embryo Adoption Awareness Center. (2011). Embryo donation vs. adoption: What's the difference? https://embryoadoption.org/2011/01/embryo-donation-vs-adoption-whats-the-difference/
Wirleitner, B., et al. (2016). The time aspect in storing vitrified blastocysts: Its impact on survival rate, implantation potential and babies born. Human Reproduction, 31(11), 2520-2528.