Embryo Adoption Programme

One of the problems which can arise with the Assisted Reproduction Techniques is what is done with the surplus embryos. In an IVF or ICSI, normally 2-3 embryos are transferred but it is not uncommon for a larger number to have been obtained. Those embryos which are not transferred are frozen and stored in an Embryo Bank.

One of the options for couples who have cryopreserved embryos and do not wish to use them for an attempt to become pregnant is to donate these embryos to other couples. This is what is called " Embryo Adoption". Art 5 of Law 35/1988 of 22 November "The donation of gametes and pre-embryos shall be of a voluntary, altruistic, free and impartial nature, in no case should there be financial reward for the donor, nor shall the recipient be asked for any price for the gametes or pre-embryos donated"

Once signed authorisation has been obtained from the couple donating the embryos, the recipient undergoes hormone replacement treatment and when her uterus is receptive, the embryos are thawed and transferred into the uterus. The donation is anonymous and altruistic.

Indications:
Repeated failures at IVF.
Menopausal.
Single women