Donor Sperm Utilization
Donor sperm may be utilized in both IUI and IVF-based treatment settings in the absence of a sperm provider for single egg-producing individuals, couples with two egg-producing partners, when a severe male factor prohibits effective utilization of the male partner’s sperm, or when doing so would increase the risk of having a child with an inherited genetic disorder. Donor sperm is typically obtained from federally regulated sperm banks, and we’re here to provide pretreatment counseling and assist with the selection and ordering process. While more costly, complex, and time-consuming, utilization of sperm from a directed donor (known individual) is also an option.
Donor Egg IVF
At Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG), donor egg treatment offers a highly successful path to pregnancy for individuals and couples who may not be able to conceive using their own eggs. Our experienced fertility team provides personalized guidance throughout every step of the journey—from determining whether donor eggs are the right option for your family-building goals to coordinating your treatment plan and IVF cycle.
Through our partnership with Fairfax EggBank, patients have access to an extensive selection of carefully screened egg donors representing diverse backgrounds, along with flexible donor egg programs designed to support a wide range of family-building needs.
Gestational Carrier Utilization
A gestational carrier carries and delivers a baby for intended parents but has no genetic connection to the child. Embryos are created through IVF using the egg and sperm of the intended parents (or egg and/or sperm donors) and then transferred to the gestational carrier’s uterus. Use of a gestational carrier can be an effective family-building option for single individuals with sperm, couples with two sperm-producing partners, individuals without a functional uterus, and those for whom pregnancy may pose significant medical risks due to a complex obstetric history or an underlying health condition.
Utilization of a gestational carrier is procedurally, emotionally, and financially complex, but our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. Thorough and accurate medical, psychoeducational, and legal counseling is key, and your physician and third-party treatment coordinator will work together to ensure a smooth and compassionate experience throughout the journey. We also work closely with gestational carrier agencies and local attorneys who specialize in this aspect of family law, always with your parental rights and best interests in mind.
Embryo Donation
Embryo donation features the donation (either unidentified or directed) of embryos (product of egg + sperm) from other individuals or couples who have previously undergone IVF and completed their families, yet still have frozen embryos available for transfer. Utilization of donated embryos can be an effective option for many types of infertility, and we’re here to help you understand how certain factors influence the likelihood of success and how embryo donation compares to other available options. It is important to understand that the term “embryo adoption” is often used, but should be discouraged, as this does not represent an adoptive process. At PREG, we have our own embryo donation program and also work with outside agencies.
Interested in Donating Embryos?
If you have completed your family through IVF yet still have embryos in storage and have an interest in helping others struggling with infertility, please contact us to learn more about our embryo donation program. Donated embryos are matched to other PREG patients who will be the unidentified recipients of the embryos. The identity of the donating patients will not be disclosed to the embryo recipients. If you are currently one of our patients, you may contact your local PREG center, which will be able to help.
