egg donor

Epigenetics is a new (well to some of us!) buzzword in the field of egg donation for conception. Essentially Epigenetics refers to factors outside the gene, such as a cell's exposure to hormones or genetic variations that can modify a gene. Such factors can change what is ultimately expressed; they can change a phenotype i.e.: they can alter what an organism looks like as a consequence of the interaction of its gene AND the environment. In terms of conception via egg donation that environment begins with the womb of the birth mother.

As we all know, California passed legislation this month that required egg donation advertisements to include language regarding the risks that are involved in the medical procedure. Of course, it is not enough for those of us in the industry- BUT would we have preferred that it be TOO MUCH? In fact, the original piece had wanted the egg donors to see a different IVF physician for a pre-consult, which would have added additional costs to the Intended Parents' already steep costs.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/eggdonation/lawyer/prweb3120394.htm

Egg donation in South Africa is indeed legal and legislated as Chapter 8 of the National Health Act (Act no 61 of 2003) Gamete donation is regulated by The Policy Committee of the South African Society of Reproductive Science and Surgery. The 2008 Guidelines for gamete donation provides the latest recommendations for clinicians involved in assisted conception using gamete (egg) donors.

Hello & Happy Friday! I am in Montreal where it is rainy and gloomy (yuck!), but enjoying a great ABA convention. Today just one legal update on Montana and an issue the industry is currently struggling with.

Montana - Montana State Supreme Court uphold same sex parentage via Proud Parenting.

"The Montana Supreme Court has upheld a woman's custody rights to the two children her same-sex partner adopted during their relationship.

Great article courtesy of Conceive Magazine. Important reading!

http://conceiveonline.com/3rd-party-reproduction-infertility/choose-an-e...

Written by Pamela Guthrie O’Brien

A growing number of women—especially those over age 40, and women who have been unsuccessful with other infertility treatments—are using donor eggs.

On Friday, Steve and I had a scheduled phone call with our egg donor candidate. I am so thrilled to report that we absolutely, without a doubt, 100% LOVE HER! She was warm, bright and just said all the right things triple confirming what we hoped to be true. The best part is that she likes us too and per the agency has agreed to the journey with us.

THANK GOD we don't have to go back to the drawing board. It’s slim pickin's out there people. Just check out these sample egg donors below. Kudos to anyone who gets the "Lost" reference.

Australian egg donation laws have resulted in South Africa becoming an attractive destination for couples seeking Egg Donation. The legal process involved in Australian egg donation is complex; this coupled with the fact that donors cannot be compensated for their donation has resulted in a shortage of donors. Furthermore the egg donor's details are required to be noted on the birth certificate, which for many intended parents is not an option. If an Australian couple wishes to advertise for an egg donor hey must first seek permission from the Health Ministry.