Known Donor Programme
A known donor programme is a fertility option where individuals or couples choose to use a sperm or egg donor whose identity is known to them. In contrast to anonymous donors, known donors may include friends, family members, or individuals known to the intended parents. This approach offers a more transparent and collaborative process, allowing for a connection between the donors and the recipients.
Who Is Suitable For Known Donor Programme?
The known donor programme is a suitable option for individuals or couples facing fertility challenges who desire assistance in conceiving. This approach is ideal for those who value a known genetic connection and prioritize transparency, choosing a donor whose identity is known to them.
What Does The Known Donor Programme Involve?
The known donor programme involves several key steps, with the specifics varying based on whether the treatment is for sperm or egg donation. Here’s an overview:
For Spern Donation:
Step 1 - Initial Consulation
Intended parents and the known sperm donor meet with fertility specialists to discuss the process, expectations, and legal considerations.
Step 2 - Legal Agreements
Legal professionals assist in drafting comprehensive agreements outlining the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved.
Step 3 - Medical Screening
The known sperm donor undergoes medical and genetic screenings to ensure their suitability and rule out potential health issues.
Step 4 - Sperm Collection and Processing
The donor provides sperm samples, which are processed and prepared for use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Step 5 - Fertility Treatment
The prepared sperm is used in the chosen fertility treatment, and the female partner undergoes the necessary procedures to facilitate conception.
For Egg Donation:
Step 1 - Initial Consulation
Intended parents and the known sperm donor meet with fertility specialists to discuss the process, expectations, and legal considerations.
Step 2 - Legal Agreements
Legal professionals assist in drafting comprehensive agreements outlining the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved.
Step 3 - Medical Screening
The known egg donor undergoes thorough medical and psychological evaluations to ensure suitability for donation.
Step 4 - Synchronization of Menstrual Cycles
The menstrual cycles of the egg donor and the recipient are synchronized through hormonal medications.
Step 5 - Egg Retrieval
The egg donor undergoes a minor surgical procedure to retrieve mature eggs. The eggs are then fertilized with the sperm (either from a partner or a sperm donor) through IVF.
Step 6 - Embryo Transfer
The resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus of the intended mother or a gestational carrier to achieve pregnancy.
Throughout both processes, ongoing communication and support are crucial, and all parties involved should be well-informed about the emotional, legal, and medical aspects of the known donor treatment.
How Can I Find Out if I am a Suitable Candidate for the Known Donor Programme?
You can contact us by phone, email or through our appointment form below. We also accept GP referrals.
Transportation of Gametes
Keith Trower MA is the former CEO of Aeromedevac Ireland Ltd, the Irish-based air ambulance, responsible for internationally accredited medical courier transfers of human tissue. To support egg donation programmes provided by fertility clinics, Aeromedevac was approved for transportation of human tissue by commercial airliner by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) , Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) and major airlines such as Aer Lingus, British Airways and Lufthansa.
As part of his remit, Keith was responsible for overseas medical repatriation services for some 2.2 million PPP healthcare members involving over 250 repatriations by air ambulance every year.
Keith and his team have a wide experience are an independent group and provide valuable inter-clinic transfer knowledge and skill.
We at FIVF will direct you to their services if you require them at any time.
Request An Appointment
Frequently Asked Question
Q1: How Do I Schedule an Initial Consultation?
A: To schedule an initial consultation, please contact our clinic directly via phone, email, or through our appointment request form. You may also ask your general practitioner or healthcare provider for a referral.
Q2: What Services Do You Offer?
A: We offer a range of fertility services, including but not limited to IVF, IUI, egg freezing, and donor programs. Our experienced team will guide you through the available options based on your individual needs.
Q3: What Factors Contribute to Infertility, and When Should I Seek Help?
A: Infertility can result from various factors. If you’ve been actively trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you’re over 35) without success, or if you have known fertility issues, it’s advisable to seek consultation. Both partners should undergo initial assessments to determine the cause.
Q4: How Does The Fertility Treatment Process Work?
A: The process varies based on the chosen treatment, but generally involves an initial consultation, diagnostic testing, personalized treatment planning, and, if needed, assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF or IUI. Our team will guide you through each step.
Q5: Do You Offer Financial Assistance or Insurance Coverage?
A: Our team can discuss available financing options, and we recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand coverage details.
As of 2023, patients may avail of publicly funded IVF, IUI, or ICSI treatments through the HSE if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Q6: What Are The Success Rates of Your Fertility Treatments?
A: Success rates can vary based on individual circumstances. During your consultation, we will provide you with personalized information based on your medical history and the specific treatment plan.
Q7: Is Fertility Treatment Only For Couples, or Can Single Individuals Also Seek Assistance?
A: We welcome both couples and single individuals seeking fertility assistance. Our team provides support and guidance to individuals with diverse family-building goals.
Q8: Are fertility treatments physically and emotionally demanding?
A: Fertility treatments can be emotionally challenging, and the physical aspects vary. Our team is committed to providing compassionate care and support throughout your fertility journey.
Q9: Are there lifestyle changes that can enhance fertility?
A: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact fertility. Our team will provide guidance on factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management to optimize your chances of conception.
Q10: How confidential is the fertility treatment process?
A: Patient confidentiality is a top priority. We adhere to strict privacy standards, and all information shared with our clinic is kept confidential.
We Offer High Success Rates!
With both frozen and fresh embryo transfer options available, we tailor our approach to suit each individual’s needs, maximising the chances of conception. Find our more about how our dedicated team of experts utilizes cutting-edge technology and personalised care to achieve outstanding results.
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