Some patients may produce more embryos (fertilized eggs) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) than they require. The additional embryos could be cryopreserved (frozen) in order to transplant them at a later time. These embryos, however, might not always be put to use. These patients can choose to have their embryos discarded, given to research, or given to another woman to help her conceive.
Some patients may produce more embryos (fertilized eggs) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) than they require. The additional embryos could be cryopreserved (frozen) in order to transplant them at a later time. These embryos, however, might not always be put to use. These patients can choose to have their embryos discarded, given to research, or given to another woman to help her conceive.
Embryo donation is an altruistic process where couples or individuals donate their excess embryos created during IVF treatment for others to use. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine regulates the process.
The US has a large number of fertility clinics offering embryo donation, but costs can vary greatly depending on the clinic and specific services required. Average cost ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 per cycle.