Embryo Adoption

 

 

 

 

 

The adoption of an embryo, also known as embryo adoption, is an advanced assisted reproductive technique that provides couples and single women with the possibility of receiving embryos donated altruistically by other couples.

These donated embryos are transferred into the uterus of the recipient, with the aim of achieving a successful pregnancy. Embryo donation is a viable option for those who face fertility problems and cannot use their own gametes (eggs and/or sperm).

It is also an alternative for those who prefer not to resort to double donation, i.e. the creation of embryos from scratch using donor eggs and sperm.

The aim of embryo reception is to provide viable embryos to people who cannot conceive with their own gametes. 

The process begins with the selection of donated embryos, which have been previously cryopreserved after a successful in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle of another couple. The selected embryos are thawed and prepared for transfer to the recipient’s uterus.

The woman who is to receive the embryo must prepare her uterus (endometrium) for the transfer. The doctor will indicate the best way to do this in her case. During the days of endometrial preparation, the woman will have to attend consultations to evaluate, by means of ultrasound, that the endometrium is in optimal conditions to receive an embryo.

When the endometrium is optimal, the embryo is thawed and transferred to the uterus. This is a painless procedure in which the embryo is positioned in the most suitable place in the uterus, guided by ultrasound.

Embryo transfer takes place at a stage of embryo development known as the blastocyst, which is reached approximately 5-6 days after fertilisation.

STAGES OF THE PROCEDURE
01 Previous Tests

Medical evaluation to ensure the recipient’s suitability.

02 Procedure

Review of tests and initiation of treatment: If necessary, the doctor may prescribe additional medication. Pre-gestational poly-vitamins will also be prescribed. The phenotypic characteristics of the woman receiving the embryo will be collected.


Embryo selection: The donated and cryopreserved embryo that is most suitable for the recipient is chosen. Priority is given to the best embryo quality and the maintenance of the recipient’s race.


Endometrial preparation: Hormonal medication is used to prepare the recipient’s uterus. In some cases, the preparation of the endometrium is carried out in the natural cycle (without medication), assessing the time of the cycle when the endometrium is receptive. During this process, ultrasound checks must be carried out to verify that the endometrium is in good condition for the transfer.


Embryo thawing: Complex process of embryo thawing carried out in the laboratory.

Embryo transfer: Minimally invasive procedure to place the embryo in the most suitable place in the uterus, guided by ultrasound.

Procedure
03 Gestational Control

Pregnancy test: A pregnancy test is performed approximately 11 days after the transfer.
Confirmation ultrasound: Confirmation of pregnancy by ultrasound at 2 weeks if the test is positive.

Embryo adoption, also known as embryo donation, is an advanced assisted reproduction technique that offers couples and single women the possibility of receiving embryos donated altruistically by other couples.

WHO IS IT FOR?

  • Couples with severe fertility problems who cannot use their own gametes, as an alternative to double donation.
  • Women without a male partner who wish to have children and cannot resort to other assisted reproduction techniques.
  • Couples wishing to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases.

SUCCESS RATES

The success rate of embryo reception varies according to the specific conditions of the recipient, but is generally between 30-50% per transfer. The quality of the donated embryos and the health of the recipient’s endometrium are determining factors in success rates.

FAQs

Yes, you can lead a normal life during treatment, except for a few days before and after the transfer, where it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse. 

Depending on endometrial receptivity and other factors, more than one embryo donation cycle may be necessary to achieve a successful pregnancy. Consult your doctor for a personalised assessment.

Several medical tests are required, including blood tests, hormone evaluations, ultrasound scans and a uterus assessment to ensure that it is suitable for embryo transfer.

Our clinic offers psychological counselling to help couples or women through the so-called “genetic grief”. We help to manage the emotions and decisions that accompany embryo adoption.

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