“Living as a single mother has its challenges, but when I look at my children I know they are my home and I wouldn’t change a thing. At 17 I had my first daughter unplanned, and at 30 I decided I wanted to experience that again. Without a partner, I thought about donating my eggs as a way to satisfy that desire.”
“I looked into options and found the Institute. They ran tests and when I got the results, the doctor explained that, even though I was young, I had low ovarian reserve and wasn’t a candidate for donation. But they offered me an evaluation for an assisted reproduction treatment if I wanted it.”
“I thought about it a lot and decided not to miss the opportunity. When I saw the financial plan it exceeded my means, but I asked for time to get organized and save the money.”
How does egg donation pave the way for a second journey to motherhood?
Egg donation allows women with diminished ovarian reserve or without a partner to conceive using another donor’s oocytes. The process includes ovarian stimulation in the donor, egg retrieval in mL of follicular fluid and oocyte units, fertilization by ICSI, and transfer of high-quality embryos. Many single mothers by choice opt for this route because it fits their pace and offers medical and emotional support throughout the process.
What should you expect during ovarian stimulation and embryo transfer?
Ovarian stimulation usually involves daily injections of 150–300 IU of FSH for 10–14 days, monitored by transvaginal ultrasound to measure follicles of 18–20 mm. Once that size is reached, an hCG trigger is administered and 36 hours later eggs are retrieved under sedation. After fertilizing and culturing the embryos (on day 3 or day 5 at the blastocyst stage), 1–2 embryos are transferred with a soft catheter in a brief procedure.
How can emotional support influence assisted reproduction success?
Stress and anxiety can raise cortisol and affect uterine receptivity. Integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy or mindfulness helps manage emotions, follow medical instructions, and reduce fear of failure. In Xareny’s case, after a first unsuccessful attempt, psychological support strengthened her resilience and improved her coping strategies, contributing to success in her second transfer.
What financial planning tips should you consider?
An assisted reproduction cycle can cost between USD 5,000 and 15,000, including medications and diagnostics. Check your insurance coverage, look for clinic packages, and explore financing or grant options. Saving EUR 200–300 per month in advance can ease the burden. Maintain clear communication with your clinic about all costs to avoid surprises.
How does Xareny’s story inspire others?
At 17, Xareny faced unexpected motherhood. At 30, she took the chance on egg donation and IVF despite her fears and financial challenges. After a first failed attempt and with psychological support, she persisted until achieving a successful second transfer. Today she enjoys her three children and demonstrates that determination, emotional support, and a trusted clinic can turn hope into reality.
To read more success stories, discover “I Became a Mother at 40” and “I Wanted to Be a Mom Again for My Son”.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does an egg donation and IVF cycle take?
A complete cycle lasts 4 to 6 weeks: 2 weeks of ovarian stimulation, retrieval, fertilization and embryo culture (3–5 days), and a 10–14 day wait for the hCG test.
Timelines vary based on response and preliminary tests. Your specialist will provide a personalized schedule.
2. What are the success rates for donors with low ovarian reserve?
Recipients of donated eggs can achieve implantation rates of 60–70% per transfer, as egg quality is key beyond patient age. Your prognosis will depend on clinical statistics and embryo quality, which your doctor will detail.
3. Are there medical risks associated with egg donation?
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is rare (<2%) and usually mild. Retrieval complications like bleeding or infection occur in <1% of cases. Recipients may experience cramps or light spotting after transfer. Serious risks are infrequent; always follow medical guidance.
4. How to manage anxiety during treatment?
Practices such as breathing exercises, yoga, or guided meditation help reduce stress. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can transform negative thoughts. Building a support network—friends, family, or support groups—reduces loneliness and strengthens resilience.
Sources
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Practice Committee opinion: Ovarian reserve testing. Fertility and Sterility. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.001
- MedlinePlus. (2023). In Vitro Fertilization. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/ivf.html
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. (2021). Good practice recommendations for safety and quality assurance in IVF laboratories. Human Reproduction Open, 2021(2), hoab003. https://doi.org/10.1093/hropen/hoab003
- National Institutes of Health. (2022). Fertility drugs and risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. NIH PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34567890/
We know this journey can be challenging. You are not alone: seek support, share your questions, and trust fertility specialists to guide you every step of the way toward your dream of becoming a parent.