For individuals and couples struggling with infertility, third-party reproduction can be a viable option to fulfill their dream of starting a family. The term "third-party reproduction" refers to the use of donated eggs, sperm, or embryos, and gestational-carrier arrangements, where a pregnancy is carried by someone other than the intended parent(s).

While it can be a sensitive and complex decision, third-party reproduction has become increasingly popular and accessible. In this blog post, we will explore what third-party reproduction is, the different types of third-party reproduction, and whether it might be the right choice for you.

Whether you're just considering your options or have been contemplating third-party reproduction for some time, this post will provide valuable information to help you make an informed decision.

What exactly is third-party reproduction?

Third-party reproduction is a medical procedure where an individual or a couple uses a donor’s egg, sperm, or embryo to conceive a child. In 2019 reports showed that the use of donor conception resulted in over 4,100 births, representing 1 in 170 of all births and 1 in 6 births using IVF in the UK. It is a rapidly growing industry, and with advancements in medical technology, the options available for third-party reproduction are increasing.

Third-party reproduction can be a viable option for individuals or couples who are unable to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technology (ART). This may include same-sex couples, single individuals, or couples struggling with infertility.

Using donor eggs can increase the chances of pregnancy for patients in some age groups, as birth rates decline with age when using their own eggs. In 2018/19, birth rates were 33% for patients aged 18-34 using their own eggs and 5% for those aged 43-50. However, when donor eggs were used, birth rates remained above 30% for all ages.

In some cases, third-party reproduction can be the only way for these individuals to have a  child. It is important to remember that the decision to use a third-party reproductive method is a personal one and should be made after careful consideration and discussion with a medical professional.

What types of third-party reproduction are there?

There are several options available for third-party reproduction.

Sperm Donation

Sperm donation is a type of third-party reproduction in which the male partner of the infertile couple has a low sperm count or no sperm, making it impossible to achieve a pregnancy without donor sperm. Sperm donation is also an option for same-sex female couples. The donor sperm can be obtained through a sperm bank or a known donor. The donor sperm is then used for insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Egg Donation

Egg donation is a type of third-party reproduction in which an egg from a donor is fertilized with sperm from the intended father or a donor sperm, and then transferred to the intended mother or a gestational carrier. Egg donation is often used when the intended mother has a premature ovarian failure or poor egg quality. Egg donation is also a great option for same-sex male couples.

Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a type of third-party reproduction in which a gestational carrier carries a pregnancy for an intended parent or couple. In gestational surrogacy, the embryo is created using the intended mother’s egg or a donor egg and the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm and then transferred to the gestational carrier. Surrogacy is typically used when the intended mother cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons or when same-sex male couples want to have biological children.

Embryo Donation

Embryo donation is a type of third-party reproduction in which embryos that were created using donor eggs and sperm are donated to an intended recipient for transfer. The patient, who will be carrying the pregnancy to term, receives the transferred embryos resulting from fertilization. The embryos are typically created during IVF treatment and are donated by couples who have completed their family building or by individuals who have chosen to donate their remaining embryos.

Embryo Adoption

Embryo adoption is a type of third-party reproduction in which embryos that were created using donor eggs and sperm are donated to an intended recipient for transfer. In other words, embryo adoption involves receiving or “adopting” embryos that were created by another couple and donated to the intended recipient for transfer.

The embryos are typically created during IVF treatment and are donated by couples who have completed their family building or by individuals who have chosen to donate their remaining embryos. Unlike embryo donation, embryo adoption considers the embryo as a child, often necessitating the recipients to undergo an extensive legal procedure to "adopt" the embryo. Embryo donation perceives the embryo as a generous gift being donated, and the recipients accept ownership of the embryo.

Legal considerations

Legal considerations are an important aspect of third-party reproduction. The laws surrounding third-party reproduction can vary from country to country  and it is important to be aware of the legal implications of using a donor or gestational carrier.

It is recommended that individuals or couples seeking third-party reproduction work with an attorney who is experienced in reproductive law to ensure that they are aware of their legal rights and responsibilities.

In some cases, the use of a donor or gestational carrier can result in legal issues related to custody and parental rights. It is important to have a legal agreement in place that outlines the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the process. This agreement should cover issues such as custody, financial obligations, and any potential medical issues that may arise.

Ethical considerations

Ethical considerations are also an important aspect of third-party reproduction. The use of a donor or gestational carrier raises ethical questions about the commodification of human life and the potential for exploitation. It is important to ensure that all parties involved in the process are treated with respect and dignity and that their rights are protected.

Third-party reproduction can be a wonderful option for those struggling with infertility. Each method has its own unique benefits and challenges, and it's crucial to explore all options thoroughly. With the right information and support from a reputable fertility specialist, third-party reproduction can offer a path to parenthood and the fulfillment of family-building dreams.