Blog post written in collaboration with Vida Fertility
“When the results point to a very low probability of success with IVF, it is our responsibility as specialists to present alternative options.” ~ Dr Rodríguez
Fertility specialists have the privilege of guiding women through one of the most personal and challenging journeys of their lives – the journey to motherhood. One of the most difficult decisions comes when, after several unsuccessful IVF cycles, the option of egg donation needs to be considered.
In this article, we explore how and when this turning point occurs, why it is essential to have an accurate medical diagnosis, and how egg donation can, in some cases, represent not just another option, but a fresh start full of hope and joy.
For many women and couples facing fertility challenges, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is the first choice of treatment. However, its success depends on various factors, including a woman’s age and the quality of her eggs.
As a woman gets older, both the quality and quantity of her eggs decline, which can lead to failed IVF cycles. At Vida Fertility, every case is carefully assessed to understand the reasons behind these outcomes.
For patients, this is often a time of reflection – where hope and fear coexist – and where the desire to become a mother may require letting go of a genetic connection to the future child.
“At this delicate crossroads, my role is to provide not only medical expertise but also compassionate support, recognising that every woman’s journey to motherhood is unique,” ~Dr Laura Rodríguez, Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, Vida Fertility Madrid.
A key step in assessing IVF success is evaluating the ovarian reserve – the number and quality of a woman’s remaining eggs. In cases of low ovarian reserve or poor egg quality, IVF cycles may have very limited chances of success. At Vida Fertility, specialists perform a series of diagnostic tests to evaluate ovarian reserve:
Egg donation becomes a valuable option when a woman’s own eggs offer no realistic chance of pregnancy. Using donor eggs not only improves success rates in cases of poor egg quality but also allows women to experience pregnancy and childbirth. Advanced selection techniques and genetic testing ensure the compatibility and health of donor eggs, further increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
The decision to move from IVF to egg donation is not only medical – it is deeply emotional. For some women, it means accepting a biological reality and embracing a new path to motherhood. For others, the idea of parenting without a genetic link may never feel right – and both perspectives are valid and deserving of respect.
In fertility care, this process is sometimes called genetic grief – the emotional response to letting go of the genetic connection. At Vida Fertility, women and couples receive comprehensive support, both medically and emotionally, to help them make informed, confident decisions.
Choosing between IVF and egg donation is one of the most important and personal decisions a woman can make on her fertility journey. It is a choice shaped by medical facts, emotional readiness, and personal values.
At Vida Fertility, our role is to offer the highest level of science and care – helping every woman find the path that feels right for her.
Contact Vida Fertility’s specialist here. Learn more about egg donation here.
Enhanced Fertility Programme was founded by Andreia Trigo RN BSc MSc, Fertility Nurse Consultant, giving you access to personalised fertility diagnostics and care.
