Shared Beginnings Blog
What is a Donor Embryo?
A donor embryo is an embryo created by in vitro fertilization (IVF) using a donor egg and donor sperm. When the embryo has reached a mature and viable stage of development, it can be implanted into a recipient’s uterus. This viable stage typically occurs between 5 and...
Using Donor Eggs: Things to Know About the Donor Egg Process
Donor eggs are an option for women who are unable to become pregnant with their own eggs. Using donor eggs, intended parents can experience pregnancy and childbirth. This blog explores the donor egg process, covering the following topics: What is a Donor Egg? What is...
The Frozen Embryo Transfer Timeline
A frozen embryo transfer using donor eggs is the final stage in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process in which a frozen embryo from a donor egg cycle is thawed and then transferred into a woman's uterus, where it will hopefully implant and become a fetus. Patients...
Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy Using Donor Eggs
Are you preparing to become pregnant using an egg donor? The great news is that the chance of pregnancy success with in vitro fertilization with donor eggs is high! Success rates are even higher when you, as the intended mother (or surrogate), are well-prepared to...
Frozen Embryo Transfer: What to Expect
What is a Frozen Embryo Transfer? A frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a cycle in which frozen embryos from a previous IVF or donor egg cycle are thawed and then transferred into a woman’s uterus to help achieve pregnancy. Frozen embryo transfers (FET) are becoming as...
When to Consider Using Donor Sperm
The decision to use donor sperm when pursuing fertility treatments is obvious for many patients. When there is no male patient involved, donor sperm is an available solution. Many patients with a male partner involved need donor sperm due to medical reasons. Some...
When to Consider Donor Eggs in your Fertility Journey
If you have been undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization) treatments and have not yet successfully conceived, you may be asking whether you should continue trying with your own eggs or consider using donor eggs. For most women and couples, answering this question...
Let’s talk about the cost of IVF
Why do some clinics charge $3995 and others $15,000+ for the cost of IVF? Do you get what you pay for? I’m an Embryologist. I have worked in many laboratories across multiple countries as a full-time embryologist, as well as a traveling temporary embryologist to help...
Which is Better: A Fresh or Frozen Embryo Transfer?
Fresh and frozen embryos start the very same way—with ovulation induction and monitoring. Then, the female undergoes an egg retrieval procedure, and the eggs are fertilized with either the partner's or sperm donor's sperm. There are two ways to transfer an embryo...
What it Means to Use Donated Eggs to Grow Your Family
"I’ve seen it all. I have seen patients walk into the clinic with donor eggs in mind, even when using their own eggs is a viable option. I have seen patients wanting to try one more time to use their own eggs after being told they have none. I have seen couples split...