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Traditional Embryo Adoption vs. Donor Embryos: Understanding the Differences
Not all embryo options are created equal. Explore the difference between embryo adoption and our donor embryos.
Stephanie Bartlett, WHNP-BC
If you’re exploring embryo adoption or donor embryos as a path to parenthood, you’re likely encountering a wide range of terms, processes, and promises. Many of which can feel confusing or even contradictory. While traditional embryo adoption and donor embryo programs are often grouped together, they are fundamentally different in how embryos are created, screened, and offered to intended parents.
Clarity matters, especially when you’re making deeply personal decisions about building your family. Below, we break down the key differences between traditional embryo adoption and donor embryos through Shared Beginnings, so you can move forward informed and confident.
What Is Traditional Embryo Adoption?
Traditional embryo adoption (sometimes called embryo donation adoption) typically involves embryos that were created during another individual or couple’s IVF treatment. These embryos remain after the original family has completed their own journey and chooses to donate them.
While embryo adoption can be a meaningful option for some families, it often comes with limitations and variability.
Key characteristics of traditional embryo adoption:
Embryos were created for another family’s IVF treatment, not specifically for donation
Underlying infertility factors may exist, as IVF was required for embryo creation
Embryo quality and success rates vary, depending on age and health of the original patients at the time of freezing
Limited medical and genetic history may be available
Legal contracts and reproductive law fees are typically required
Home studies are often mandated, similar to traditional adoption
Restrictions may apply, based on the donating family’s preferences (religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age, etc.)
Because embryo adoption programs are not always medically standardized, intended parents often experience uncertainty around screening, timelines, and success rates.
What Are Donor Embryos Through Shared Beginnings?
Donor embryos at Shared Beginnings are fundamentally different. These embryos are intentionally created for donation using fully screened egg donors and donor sperm, under the oversight of experienced medical professionals.
This approach is often referred to as donor donor embryos or double donor embryos, and it is designed to maximize safety, transparency, and success.
Key characteristics of Shared Beginnings donor embryos:
Created from egg donors and sperm donors—not remaining IVF embryos
Donors are young (typically 21–32) with no known infertility
Comprehensive FDA- and ASRM-guided screening, including medical, genetic, and psychological evaluations
Most embryos are PGT-A tested for chromosomal normality
Cryopreserved on Day 5 or Day 6, when embryos have the highest implantation potential
No legal adoption process or home study required
Inclusive of all intended parents, including single parents and LGBTQ+ families
High pregnancy success rates, exceeding national averages
Because these embryos are created intentionally within a medically-led donor program, intended parents have far greater insight into embryo quality, donor health, and expected outcomes.
A Side-by-Side Comparison
Traditional Embryo Adoption | Shared Beginnings Donor Embryos | |
|---|---|---|
How embryos are created | Remaining embryos from another family’s IVF | Created specifically from donor egg + donor sperm |
Donor age & fertility | Varies; infertility may be present | Young, fertile donors with no infertility |
Screening standards | Often limited or inconsistent | FDA & ASRM-guided, comprehensive screening |
Genetic testing (PGT-A) | Occasionally | Common |
Legal requirements | Adoption contracts, legal fees, home study | No adoption process or home study |
Restrictions on recipients | Variable | One counseling session with a reproductive psychologist |
Success rates | Variable | Among the highest in the field |
Why Many Intended Parents Choose Donor Embryos Through Shared Beginnings
For many people, donor embryos offer a faster, more affordable, and medically predictable path to pregnancy, without the complexity and uncertainty often associated with traditional embryo adoption.
At Shared Beginnings, our donor embryo programs are:
Developed and delivered by medical professionals
Built around transparency, choice, and inclusion
Designed to maximize success while reducing emotional and logistical barriers
Whether you’re exploring embryo adoption, embryo donation, or donor embryo programs, the most important thing is finding a path that aligns with your values, your timeline, and your hopes for the future.
Considering Your Next Step?
If you’re curious whether donor embryos could be right for you, a consultation can help clarify your options. No pressure, just information. Our medically-trained team is here to answer your questions and guide you forward with care.
You deserve clear answers, expert support, and a path that feels right for you.
