Gamete donation involves giving sperm, eggs, or embryos (fertilized eggs) to a person or couple seeking to start a family. Gametes are the reproductive cells that start the contraception process, and can be donated to those struggling with fertility issues. When people donate sperm or eggs to create an embryo, the process results in unused gametes. Choosing what to do with unused gametes is difficult, and involves both practical and ethical questions.
Many donors are unsure about what comes next for unused gametes, so it helps to plan ahead with a knowledgeable reproductive law attorney. Options for unused gametes in Massachusetts contracts include freezing or donating fertilized embryos. Talk with an experienced embryo donation lawyer at TR Law Offices and learn how to choose the best options for your situation.
Embryo donation through in vitro fertilization (IVF) involves the donation of embryos so others can form families of their own. Potential recipients of gametes through IVF can include:
Donors typically donate their gametes when they are not seeking any more children of their own but are willing to help others. Ideally, donors should be able to provide at least two successfully fertilized embryos. Often, the process will result in more than two fertilized embryos placed in storage.
By stimulating ovaries, retrieving eggs, and fertilizing the eggs with sperm, numerous embryos can be created. Some embryos are not viable, and not all need to be used right away. Embryos are checked for shape, growth, and genetic health before approval for transfer or long-term storage. Embryos which are not utilized quickly can be frozen for future use, donated, or used for research.
Choosing what you want to do with unused embryos is a uniquely personal decision. Medical, ethical, and emotional factors all come into play when deciding how unused gametes are used. You can prepare for this choice by consulting with an ART attorney and addressing your goals through a contact to ease the stress and uncertainty.
Massachusetts law doesn’t include a statute covering gamete donation or the options available to donors. While there are no statutory requirements, donors, recipients, and health care providers can agree to enforceable contracts addressing the use of unused gametes. Common options for unused gametes in Massachusetts include:
Donors of sperm, eggs, and embryos will have important medical, ethical, and legal considerations to think about. Our experienced attorney, Teri Robins, can help you consider all options for unused gametes available to you.
To ensure your goals for gamete donation in Massachusetts are met in all aspects, an experienced lawyer can review every available option so your wishes are followed. With such important considerations, it is wise to have legal help in outlining the process of handling your genetic material.
