If you're thinking about having fertility treatment using a donor overseas, there is a lot you need to consider. Perhaps most importantly is the fact that egg and sperm overseas isn't regulated in the same way as it is here in the UK.
It's important you understand the differences and carry out thorough research before opting for donor treatment abroad..
The main difference between using a donor in the UK or overseas is that UK donors must consent to providing identifying information about themselves. This ensures that any children born as a result of their donation can find out who their donor is and get in touch when they reach the legal age of 18.
While many people have safe, effective and successful fertility treatment abroad, it is important you do your research. Other countries have different government bodies or laws that oversee their fertility treatments, and these can be different to the laws protecting those undergoing fertility treatment in the UK.
While there is legislation with the EU which sets the standards for fertility treatment quality and safety, not all EU countries implement this legislation.
Whether you can have treatment carried out in a given country depends on the laws within that country. Unfortunately, there are only a limited number of countries that offer fertility treatment to single women or same-sex couples. If you're considering donor treatment abroad, it's important you research the laws in different countries first.
If you are considering using a donor abroad, there are several things to be aware of to ensure it's the right decision for you:
Donor law abroad:Â If you are having donor treatment abroad, it is important that you understand your legal rights and responsibilities as the biological parent. In the UK, those who donate eggs, embryos or sperm at a licensed clinic, have no rights or responsibilities to any children born as a result of your donation. However, in other countries, this may not be the case. Therefore, you must do your research.
Recruitment and health checks in other countries: When seeking donor treatment abroad, you need to find out what the recruiting and screening process for donors is. All donors should be checked for infectious diseases, and their family history should be thoroughly checked, to ensure they won’t pass on any serious genetic diseases.
Donor anonymity abroad: When undertaking donor treatment abroad, it is important to consider donor anonymity laws as these can vary from country to country. Even when donations are anonymous, you can find out some identifying information about your donor (such as a physical description).
Donor limitations abroad: When considering donor treatment abroad, you may want to check if there are limits on using one donor. In the UK, one donor’s sperm can be used by up to 10 families. This is to limit the number of children with a genetic connection to you. It is important to consider that this may not be the case in other countries and, therefore, your child could be genetically related to many more families.
Are counselling services offered?
In the UK, donors are provided with counselling to ensure that they fully understand the commitment they are making. Whether you choose donor treatment with TFP in the UK or with our clinics in other countries, we provide specialist counselling services for all our patients. Our fully trained and expert counsellors will guide you through the treatment process, answer your questions, and encourage you to explore the effects of your decision on both your emotional health and on your life.
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Fertility treatments overseas you can rely on
Fertility treatments abroad can be confusing, but we're here to help. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
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Donor treatment overseas cost
At TFP Fertility, we offer donor treatments overseas at pre-discussed costs. To learn more, book a no-obligation consultation with our specialists to discuss your desired treatment and family goals.
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Please note: terms and conditions for those residing outside of the individual country may vary