New Delhi: Infertility is on the rise across the globe, with 27.5 million couples actively seeking help for conceiving and infertility according to the current statistics. With the advancement of technology, there are new hopes for couples to have children. In the world of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), egg donation stands out as a profoundly generous and life-changing act. By donating their eggs, fertile women enable those struggling with infertility to have a child of their own. This selfless gift can be transformative for the recipient couple, but it also requires careful consideration of the health and well-being of both the donor and recipient.
Dr Kshitiz Murdia CEO & Co-Founder Indira IVF shared with News9, “The egg donation process involves several key stages. It begins with pre-selection screenings, where doctors assess the donor’s overall health through ultrasounds, bloodwork, and other diagnostic tests. This ensures the donor meets the necessary physical and mental health criteria to safely undergo the procedure.”
“Next comes the ovarian stimulation phase, where the donor is given gonadotropin injections over 10-12 days. This prompts the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs, which are then retrieved through a minor surgical procedure. During this time, the recipient’s uterus is also prepared hormonally to optimise conditions for embryo implantation.
Once the eggs are retrieved, they are fertilised with the recipient’s partner’s sperm,” said Dr Murdia.
The resulting embryos are then transferred to the recipient’s uterus, completing the IVF process. Throughout this journey, the health and wellness of both the donor and recipient are of paramount importance.
Prioritising the Donor’s Health
Dr Murdia explained, “For the egg donor, maintaining optimal physical and mental health is crucial. Staying hydrated by drinking electrolyte-rich fluids is the first line of defence. A nutrient-dense diet featuring fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats provides the building blocks the body needs to support the egg production process.”
“Prenatal supplements can further ensure the donor’s body has all the essential vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients required. Light exercise, such as walking, can improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to the reproductive organs, while adequate rest allows the body to recover and regulate. Emotionally, the egg donation process can be complex, with a range of feelings and questions that arise. Donors should feel empowered to openly communicate with their medical team, voicing any concerns or uncertainties. Maintaining strong social support networks can also be tremendously beneficial during this time.”
Optimising the Recipient’s Health
For the recipient undergoing IVF, a similar focus on holistic health is crucial. While there is no one-size-fits-all dietary approach, a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in nutrients like zinc, folic acid, iron, and protein is generally recommended. Avoiding major dietary changes during this period allows the body to function optimally.
Hydration is equally important for the recipient, as is refraining from alcohol and smoking, both of which can negatively impact fertility. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness practices, yoga, or other relaxation techniques may help mitigate the emotional toll of the IVF journey.
Throughout this process, open communication with the medical team is key. Recipients should feel empowered to ask questions, express concerns, and work collaboratively with their doctors to optimise their health and the chances of a successful outcome.
The egg donation process involves several key stages. It begins with pre-selection screenings, where doctors assess the donor’s overall health through ultrasounds, bloodwork, and other diagnostic tests. This ensures the donor meets the necessary physical and mental health criteria to safely undergo the procedure. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
