Patient: Let’s talk about the donor egg issue in IVF.
Dr. Gulati: I’ve been hearing more and more about this. Some of my friends who’ve gone through IVF said their doctors pushed them to use donor eggs, even when their ovarian reserve seemed fine. It’s concerning—why suggest donor eggs if the patient still has viable eggs?
Patient: I’m glad you mentioned that. Unfortunately, it’s true that some doctors do push patients toward donor eggs, often too early. It’s really troubling because it takes away the patient’s right to try with their own eggs.
Here’s why this happens: some doctors claim that there’s a risk of “empty follicles” during the egg retrieval process—meaning no eggs might be found. They use this possibility as a reason to suggest donor eggs, even if the patient’s ovarian reserve is good.
Patient: But isn’t the point of IVF to try with the patient’s own eggs first? Why jump straight to donor eggs?
Dr. Gulati: Exactly. IVF is designed to help you conceive with your own eggs whenever possible. The decision to use donor eggs should only come after careful discussion and if there’s clear evidence that using your own eggs won’t work. But sometimes, the push for donor eggs is financially motivated.
Patient: Financially motivated? Are doctors suggesting donor eggs just to make more money?
Dr. Gulati: Unfortunately, yes. Donor eggs can be more profitable for some clinics because the process is often simpler and has a higher success rate, which can cost more. This can tempt some less ethical doctors to push patients in that direction too soon. But that’s not how medicine should work.
A responsible doctor should try everything possible with your own eggs first. Moving to donor eggs should be a medical decision, not a financial one. Unfortunately, in places like India, many patients trust their doctors completely and might not question these decisions.
Patient: That’s really upsetting. How can patients protect themselves from falling into this trap?
Dr. Gulati: The key is to be informed and ask the right questions. Know your fertility stats, like your antral follicle count (AFC) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels. If these are normal, there’s usually no reason to rush to donor eggs before trying IVF with your own eggs.
Always ask why your doctor is suggesting donor eggs. Request to see your hormone levels and ultrasound scans, and don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. If a doctor is quick to suggest donor eggs without trying your own eggs first, that’s a red flag.
Patient: So, if my AFC and AMH levels are good, does that mean I have a reasonable chance of conceiving with my own eggs?
Dr. Gulati: Yes, absolutely. A high AFC and normal AMH levels usually mean you have a good ovarian reserve, so it makes sense to attempt IVF with your own eggs first. IVF isn’t a guarantee, but it gives you a solid chance with your own biology.
Patient: What if the doctor says my follicles might be empty? Is that something to worry about?
Dr. Gulati: Empty follicle syndrome, where no eggs are retrieved despite normal follicle development, is rare. It’s not something to assume lightly. The decision to use donor eggs should be based on actual findings, not just fear or speculation.
If your doctor is worried about empty follicles, ask for a detailed explanation and proof. Look at your hormone levels, follicle scans, and past cycle results. If the explanation doesn’t add up, it’s time to seek another opinion.
Patient: This is really eye-opening. I didn’t realize how important it was to advocate for myself. What should I do if I feel like I’m being pressured into something I’m not comfortable with?
Dr. Gulati: Trust your gut. If you feel pressured, take a step back and re-evaluate your options. Don’t rush into any decisions—IVF is a huge emotional and financial commitment, and you have every right to gather all the information you need.
Consider getting a second opinion from a doctor who respects your autonomy and is willing to explore all options with your own eggs first. Don’t be afraid to question your doctor and ask for clear, evidence-based reasons behind their recommendations.
Patient: Thank you, Dr. Gulati. This has been really helpful. I feel much more empowered to make informed decisions now.
Dr. Gulati: I’m so glad to hear that! Remember, your body, your choice. It’s important to find a doctor who respects that and works with you to achieve the best outcome using the least invasive options first.
If you’re interested in a second opinion, you can fill out the form on our website with your reports, and I’ll provide one for free. Or, if you’d prefer direct advice, you can book a consultation at www.eggdonors4all.com. This can help make sure you’re on the right path and potentially save you significant costs in the long run.
