The Limits of a Woman’s Fertility
Reproductive sciences have allowed millions the opportunity to start a family, but it doesn’t always work as hoped. It should be noted that fertility science is not the rosy-eyed answer to all our fertility based problems. As with all science, it has its limitations. It may be difficult to believe that infertility is on the […]
How Well Does Surrogacy Work?
A recent study reviewed data from the first decade of this century to determine the relative risks and overall safety of surrogacy procedures. The finding? Surrogacy works pretty well, and the risks are low. The risk of complications with the stimulation or surgical process of ART related procedures was low in the United States during […]
Surrogacy Works: The cost and complications of freezing eggs
Women who face severe illness that can hinder their fertility such as various cancers and endometriosis can now make the choice to harvest and freeze their eggs in the hopes of having a child through IVF years later. Frozen eggs are one more innovation in how surrogacy works. The practice places a hold on these […]
WHO expands support for Gay Surrogacy
A dramatic change to the definition of ‘infertility’ by the World Health Organization could open the door to gay surrogacy rights to millions of same-sex couples. According to statements by doctors inside the WHO, the organization may redefine infertility so that everyone who wants a child but cannot will be considered infertile. The definition would […]
California expands support for Gay Surrogacy
California Governor Jerry Brown has signed a new law that will further strengthen gay surrogacy agreements in California. The legislation will prevent California-parents, including members of the LGBT community, from having their parental rights questioned outside the state by giving California courts jurisdiction over any issues involving the parental rights of Californians who have had […]
Should I discontinue Propecia to donate sperm?
“I’ve been taking Propecia for years, but I’ve learned that it can affect sperm quality. Do I need to stop taking it if I want to have an IVF procedure?” – Julien Thanks for the question, Julien, There have been several published reports that confirm Propecia can suppress sperm quantity and quality. However the […]
Preparing your Surrogate for an Embryo Transfer
Now that you’ve completed your IVF, it’s time to transfer your embryo to your surrogate. The most important step is proper endometrium preparation. Correct stimulation of the endometrium requires a mix of science and artistry. This is one point where your doctor’s experience can really pay off! For most surrogate mothers, the most critical factor […]
Is surrogacy illegal even if I travel abroad?
Surrogacy is illegal where I live. Here in Italy surrogacy is totally prohibited, and there are even criminal penalties for surrogates and surrogacy agents. Can I pursue surrogacy even though it’s illegal in my home country? –Jeane Thanks for the message Jeanne; In many countries (including most of Europe) it is absolutely illegal to […]
Can I ship my sperm or egg donation to the overseas clinic?
It is possible to ship a frozen sperm sample to our overseas clinics. However most parents find it is much cheaper to just travel to the clinic and leave donation in person. The cost of shipping a frozen sperm sample or vitrified eggs will be about $3,000 USD from most Western cities to Eastern Europe, […]
Fresh or Frozen Eggs for IVF: Which is Better?
Which is better for our IVF cycle, fresh or frozen eggs? Frozen eggs seem cheaper, but I’ve heard there are risks. — Gemma Thanks for this important question Gemma. Many of my clients suggest buying eggs from an egg bank, but I recommend the fresh eggs from a live donor. There are a few […]