What Intended Parents Should Know About Egg Donation and PCOS

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects many women, often contributing to challenges with infertility. However, thanks to advanced fertility treatments, many women with PCOS go on to successfully conceive. For others, the journey to parenthood may not go as planned, and that's where the option of using donor eggs comes into play. During PCOS Awareness Month, exploring the option of using donor eggs can be a liberating step, offering new possibilities for building the family of your dreams.

Why PCOS Patients May Choose Egg Donation

There are several reasons why patients with PCOS may opt for egg donation. This choice is often made after other fertility treatments have been exhausted or if the individual's condition significantly affects their egg production or quality. Utilizing a younger, thoroughly screened donor can also lead to higher success rates and a lower risk of complications, especially in cases where previous IVF cycles have failed.

The Egg Donor Screening Process

Before someone can donate their eggs, they must complete thorough medical, genetic, and psychological evaluations. This testing includes physical exams, screening for infectious diseases, genetic carrier screening for inherited conditions, and assessments with a mental health professional to ensure the donor fully understands the process. These comprehensive evaluations help ensure healthy matches, providing peace of mind for both intended parents and donors.

In most cases, women with PCOS are ineligible for egg donation due to potential medical risks for the donor and complications that could arise during the egg retrieval process. However, some clinics may make exceptions for women who have a mild form of the condition or who manage it effectively.

PCOS and Egg Donation: You Aren’t Alone

Using an egg donor can feel overwhelming, and it's completely normal to have concerns about the process. Many intended parents worry that they might not bond with a donor-conceived child like they would a biologically-conceived child. Still, numerous parents report experiencing the same deep and powerful attachment to their child as those who conceived biologically.

Donor-conceived children are born from a long and challenging journey. Many parents who go through this process experience a unique sense of joy and connection because they worked so hard to grow their family. There are support groups available to connect with other parents going through a similar process. Additionally, fertility specialists and counselors can guide you through the process and address your concerns.

Learn More About Using Donor Eggs with PCOS

Navigating fertility with PCOS can be challenging, but using donor eggs is a viable option for expanding your family in a healthy way. If you’re interested in learning more about the egg donation process, Egg Bank America is available to answer your questions and guide you through this incredible and fulfilling journey. Contact us today for more information.