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Frequently Asked Questions

General
Ferti Freeze
Natural Cycle IVF
Mild IVF
Natural Reciprocal IVF
Artificial Insemination
Egg Donation

General

When is IVF needed?
Each IVF journey is unique and depends entirely on your journey to motherhood. In heterosexual couples with no previous history of infertility problems, it is recommended to try and conceive naturally for at least a year before consulting with a fertility doctor. However, in cases where fertility issues, such as Low Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis or Cancer have been previously identified, we suggest consulting with a fertility specialist right away.
Why Spain and not my home country?
Convenient location and sunny weather aside, the favourable legislation in Spain allows for unlimited blastocyst culture and embryo freezing which are both essential requirements for satisfactory results in patients with Low Ovarian Reserve.
Which treatment is right for me?

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What are the risks associated with fertility hormones?
Fertility treatments are generally very safe. However, the aggressive use of hormones in traditional IVF treatments can pose risks ranging from mild discomfort to more serious conditions.

The most common risks associated with fertility drugs include a multiple pregnancy (in IUI treatment) or birth (twins, triplets or more) or Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).

Our goal is to help women who are struggling with infertility challenges conceive in an as-close-to-natural way as possible while making use of the most advanced technologies and science-based methods. We take the less-is-more approach and avoid unnecessary medications, invasive procedures or aggressive hormonal medication – resulting in a healthier womb, mother and baby.  

Are IVF injections painful?
It varies from woman to woman. For some, an injection poses slight discomfort that passes within seconds. For others, it can be painful, worsened by anxiety. Compared to traditional methods, we use fewer injections in our treatment plans.
What are the chances of getting pregnant using frozen embryos?
For patients aged 35 or younger, there is a 60% pregnancy rate per embryo transfer. For women over the age of 38, this figure declines. The exact percentage however differs from woman to woman.
How are frozen embryos transferred?
The carrying mother’s endometrium is primed and prepared to make sure that her lining is in optimal condition to receive the embryo transfer. The embryo is then gently deposited into the birth mother’s uterus in a risk-free and painless procedure that is carried out in the comfort of our tranquil transfer room. No anaesthesia is required.
What are the options if a woman's own eggs are not producing a pregnancy?

Conventional clinics are often quick to propose egg donation. We prefer to explore a realistic alternative to egg donation by means of our highly specialised Mild IVF Treatment to help women with Low Ovarian Reserve make use of her own eggs. If you have tried traditional IVF treatments with your own eggs and haven’t yet conceived, talk to our fertility experts about our Mild IVF treatment.

Do you only treat married couples?
Not at all. We are here to make every woman’s dream of being a mother a reality.
Are you just a Natural Alternative clinic?
No, we take our cue from nature and support it with science. We believe that nature knows best, which is why our treatment methods that are as-close-to-natural as possible while utilising cutting-edge technology and science-based approaches.

Ferti Freeze

What is FertiFreeze?
FertiFreeze, also known as Female Fertility Preservation, Social Egg Freezing or Oocyte Cryopreservation, is a technique used to preserve your current fertility by retrieving your eggs in their current healthy and quality condition. Your eggs are frozen (vitrified) and safely stored for when the time is right for you.
Why should I freeze my eggs?
Because your future older self will have access to your younger quality eggs. Women experience a decline in egg number and quality as their age increases. Therefore, egg freezing is a means of temporarily “pausing” your biological clock and ensure that in the future should you you’re your eggs, you have the option to use your eggs first rather than from another woman through egg donation.
Can I freeze embryos rather?
Yes, of course you can with either your partner or a donor’s sperm. This would be the same process as freezing your eggs, except with the added Blastocysts creation and freezing phases.
Why choose NatuVitro for my fertility preservation treatment?
Because we have highly qualified, skilled and experienced embryologists with many years of experience freezing eggs. The most distinguishing factor to consider when vitrifying your eggs is the skill and experience of the embryologists with vitrification.

At NatuVitro we balance both nature and science so you can expect us to be equipped with cutting-edge incubators, microscopes, and highly trained technicians to guarantee that your delicate eggs have the highest chance of developing into healthy embryos, one day when you need them.

Who is the ideal FertiFreeze candidate?

Women:

  • Are between 18 and 35* years old.
  • Have a regular period and low to no fertility disturbances.
  • Would like to empower yourself by taking your future fertility into your own hands.
  • Are wishing to delay building a family to focus on your studies or career goals, have not found the right person, or the time is simply not yet right.
  • Have recently been diagnosed with cancer or are starting cancer treatment. Have recently been diagnosed with premature ovarian failure.
  • Have been diagnosed with endometriosis.
  • Before starting hormone suppression, hormone therapy, or gender-affirming surgery.
Will this treatment have an impact on my fertility in the future?

No, the ovaries total supply of eggs is not depleted by retrieving eggs. Rather, it “catches” and “rescues” available eggs that might otherwise be lost. 

How long does the FertiFreeze process take?

The egg freezing cycle takes around 3 weeks to complete and is similar to the first phases of traditional IVF, which include:

  • Birth control tablets for 1-2 weeks to temporarily switch off natural hormones (this step can be skipped if there is urgency, such as prior to cancer therapy).
  • Hormone injections for 10 to 14 days to stimulate the ovaries and mature numerous eggs.
Can I freeze my eggs if I am on the pill or have an IUD?
Both hormonal and copper IUDs can be left in place during the egg freezing procedure. In contrast, other forms of birth control, such as the pill, must be stopped before an egg or embryo freezing cycle may begin. 
Is the egg retrieval painful?
No, you’ll be given IV sedation for the 15minute operation, which means you’ll be sleeping and won’t feel anything. Following that, minor side effects such as cramps, bloating, or a sense of pressure are common. To alleviate any discomfort, the doctor may prescribe pain medication. You should be able to resume normal activities after 24 hours.
Where are my eggs stored and for how long?
At NatuVitro, we understand that preserving eggs, sperm, and embryos for our patients is a significant responsibility that requires the highest care and consideration. As a result, we have state-of-the-art secure access rooms with sensors and alarms that are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your eggs may be stored indefinitely.
What if I don’t use all or some of my eggs?
Should you never need to use your frozen egg supply you can donate them to a couple in need. If this is something you’re interested in, we can discuss if this is a viable option and we’ll do routine donor screening on you prior to starting your cycle. If you need your frozen supply but have excess eggs, you can either keep them for future attempts or give them to a couple in need, in which case the same above mentioned applies.
What happens after my FertiFreeze treatment?
We generally let you rest in the recovery room for 1 to 2 hours after your egg retrieval, or until you are ready to go. Following the procedure, you will require rest and recuperation time, but you should be back to normal in 24 hours.
What are the pregnancy success rates for IVF with my frozen eggs?
Depending on your age at the time of egg freezing, your odds of becoming pregnant after implantation range from 30 to 60%.
What happens if I don't get pregnant?
We offer a pregnancy guarantee with a full refund should you not conceive within two years. To find out if you’re eligible for this refund agreement, please get in touch to learn more.
Is there a cut off age for fertility preservation?
It is natural for women to experience a decline in egg number and quality as they mature. As a result, the younger you FertiFreeze your eggs, the better your chances of future success. However, if you are older, don’t be deterred as the success rates for FertiFreeze are 61% for women 34 years and under whereas women older than 34 have a success rate between 54 to 41% however women over 40 only have a 28% success rate.

Natural Cycle IVF

What is Natural Cycle IVF?
Our Natural Cycle in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an advanced and gentler alternative to conventional intrauterine insemination (IUI). By using a more natural and sustainable approach to mild infertility problems, Natural Cycle IVF can be done in consecutive cycles with no risk to the mother or baby. Women have two options to choose from: the first is stimulation-free, which achieves the maturation of one viable egg for IVF, while the second option is extremely light stimulation, which achieves a maximum of 3 viable eggs. At the time of ovulation, we aspirate one natural egg in a simple procedure that doesn’t require anaesthesia. This egg is then fertilised in the lab, and after a few days of culture, the embryo is gently placed into the uterus within the same cycle.
Is Natural Cycle IVF a better option for me than traditional IVF?

Yes. At NatuVitro we believe that little-to-no stimulation promotes higher quality eggs.
It also means fewer medicines, injections, side effects, clinic visits and lower costs. Little-to-no stimulation also means there is zero risk of hyperstimulation, low risk of multiple pregnancies and less physical and emotional stress for the mother to-be.

That said, at NatuVitro we do balance nature and science and are equipped with cutting-edge incubators, microscopes and highly trained technicians who handle the delicate gametes of patients – all of which promotes the growth of healthy embryos.

NatuVitro is the first fertility clinic in Europe to have the Embryoscope Flex, a top-of-the-line incubator in our lab. It is considered to be the global gold standard in IVF incubators and we leverage its phenomenal technology in all of our treatments, including Natural Cycle IVF.

Who would best benefit from Natural Cycle IVF?
Natural Cycle IVF is an excellent fit for a woman who is younger than 38*, has mild fertility challenges (but doesn’t want high-dose hormonal stimulation), is at high risk of developing Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome (OHSS) or is challenged by a history of hormone-sensitive cancer or a strong family history of cancer.
How long does the Natural Cycle IVF process take?
The entire process is based on your menstrual cycle and takes around 10 to 14 days. Given its less invasive nature, you can expect fewer injections, blood tests and scans. All of which means less stress for you.
Egg retrieval without anesthesia sounds terrifying, is it painful?
No. The procedure is performed by a highly-skilled and experienced fertility doctor using very fine instruments. According to a survey conducted in Bern, 80% of women stated the puncture was no worse than having blood drawn. In over 3 000 cycles conducted in Bern, not a single patient had to halt the retrieval because of pain. After the puncture, which takes about 2 minutes, our patients may go home or even return to work.
Where are my embryos stored and how long are they stored?
For Natural Cycle IVF we typically do fresh transfers. If, however, there is a surplus of embryos, we can store them for you for as long as you want. More importantly, we know how important preserving eggs, sperm and embryos is, which is why we have state-of-the-art secure-access rooms with sensors and alarms that are monitored around the clock.
What happens after my Natural Cycle IVF treatment?
You can go home or even straight back to work, it’s entirely up to you. We will ask you to come in for a pregnancy test in two weeks’ time.
What are the pregnancy success rates for Natural Cycle IVF?
NatuVitro’s Natural Cycle IVF success rate per transfer is significantly higher than that of conventional IVF. The success rate of one stimulated IVF cycle is the equivalent of a maximum of 3 natural IVF cycles. This is not to say you will need 3 natural cycles to conceive, if you are young and healthy, you could easily get lucky on your first attempt. 
What happens if I don't get pregnant?
We will reassess after 3 to 4 attempts. If the treatment is looking promising we will continue, or, depending on your circumstances, we might suggest Mild IVF as the next step.
Is there a cut-off age for treatment in Natural Cycle?
Yes, Natural Cycle IVF is generally recommended for women below the age of 38. That said, many women over 38 are in excellent health. It’s best to talk to one of our fertility specialists about your specific set of circumstances.

Mild IVF

What is Mild IVF?

Mild in vitro fertilisation (IVF), also known as mini IVF, is our advanced alternative to conventional IVF. Our Mild IVF provides a viable “last chance” to fall pregnant using your own egg cells.

At the time of ovulation, we retrieve your eggs in a simple procedure that doesn’t require anaesthesia. Using Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), our highly skilled embryologist injects a single sperm using a micro-needle directly into the egg. Inside the protected environment of the EmbryoScope Flex Incubator ®, the eggs develop into a blastocyst (day-5 embryo). Your 100% unaltered blastocysts are now frozen (vitrified), which is necessary to synchronise with your implantation window.

Can I do a fresh embryo transfer in Mild IVF?
We wouldn’t recommend it. The chances of conceiving are much greater if you transfer the embryos in a deferred cycle. This is because the uterus has been altered by the stimulation medication and we prefer it to be in an optimal state. For higher implantation success, we recommend that the transfer is made in an unstimulated cycle.
I was told I will have to use donor eggs by a traditional ivf clinic, what is NatuVitro’s view?
At NatuVitro we prefer to exhaust all options using your own eggs, where traditional IVF clinics will simply refer you to use donor eggs. Our last hope treatment is also better for mother and child.
Is Mild IVF a better option for me than traditional IVF?

When it comes to Low Ovarian Reserve IVF, many conventional fertility clinics take the view that the lower the ovarian reserve, the higher the stimulation. We disagree. At NatuVitro we believe that little to no stimulation creates higher quality eggs. 

Mild IVF appeals to our patients as, it not only offers a viable alternative to donor eggs but eliminates the need for excessive amounts of artificial stimulation medication and the associated side effects it can have on your body, allowing your well-being and natural cycle to be at an optimal state.

However, we balance both nature and science, so at NatuVitro you can expect us to be equipped with cutting-edge incubators, microscopes, and highly trained technicians to guarantee that the delicate gametes of patients have the highest chance of developing into healthy embryos.

NatuVitro is the first fertility clinic in Europe to have the Embryoscope Flex, a top-of-the-line incubator in our lab. It is considered to be the global gold standard in IVF incubators and we leverage its phenomenal technology in all of our treatments, including Mild IVF.

Who would best benefit from Mild IVF?

Women aged between 18 and 45 years old who:

  • Are physically capable of carrying a baby.
  • Are experiencing severe fertility obstacles and would prefer to use their own eggs instead of egg donation.
  • Have Low Ovarian Reserve or show Low Ovarian Reserve Symptoms.
  • Have been diagnosed with Endometriosis.
  • Haven’t enjoyed success with traditional fertility treatments.
  • Have a hormonal disorder such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and run a high risk of developing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
  • Are a cancer warrior or survivor.
How long does the Mild IVF process take?

It is important to note that Mild IVF is a long-term commitment of roughly 5 to 6 months. You will be stimulated and your eggs will be retrieved and stored until you have a sufficient supply, or until your natural reserve is depleted. Each stimulated cycle is based on your menstrual cycle and takes around 10 to 14 days. You can expect fewer injections, blood tests and scans than with conventional IVF treatments.

Is it possible to do the treatment without aneasthetia?

Yes. The procedure is performed by a highly-skilled and experienced doctor using very fine instruments. Given that there are fewer follicles to retrieve, the procedure is a matter of minutes. That said, the decision of how you would like to proceed is entirely up to you.

Where are my embryos stored and for how long?
At NatuVitro, we understand that preserving eggs, sperm, and embryos for our patients is a significant responsibility that requires the highest care and consideration. As a result, we have state-of-the-art secure-access rooms with sensors and alarms that are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week so we can store what you requite, for as long as you require.
What happens after my Mild IVF treatment?

It depends on whether you opted for anaesthesia or not:

  • If you opted for no anaesthesia you may go home or even straight to work depending on what feels right for you.
  • If you opted for anaesthesia, you will need the day to recover from the side effects.
What are the pregnancy success rates for Mild IVF?

It is hard to give accurate success rates as they vary depending on a few crucial factors such as age, individual genetics and your ovarian reserve. As this is a case by case basis, we will discuss your success rates in detail after your assessment.

How long will it take for me to get pregnant?
Mild IVF is a long-term commitment of about 5 to 6 months. You are stimulated and your eggs are retrieved and banked until you have sufficient banked supply or until the waning reserve is depleted.
How long do out-of-town patients undergoing Mild IVF have to stay in Barcelona?
While the stimulation can be done by a local doctor working in partnership with us. You would need to be present in Barcelona for the egg retrieval (1 to 2 nights) and then again for the transfer procedure.
Is there a cut off age for treatment in Mild IVF?
Mild IVF is generally recommended for women below the age of 45, however, it can be recommended if you are older than 45, depending on your overall health and circumstances.

Natural Reciprocal IVF

What is Natural Reciprocal IVF?

Reciprocal in vitro fertilisation (IVF) in Natural Cycle, or Natural Reception of Oocytes from the Partner (ROPA), enables a woman to carry the fertilised egg of her female partner.

We retrieve the oocytes from the genetic mother through Natural Cycle IVF, fertilise them with donor sperm and then transfer the embryos to the birth mother’s uterus. This enables both women to participate – biologically and emotionally – in a natural creation process. NatuVitro is one of the first IVF centres in the world to offer Reciprocal IVF in Natural Cycle.

Is Natural Reciprocal IVF a better option for me than traditional Reciprocal IVF?

NatuVitro is one of the first IVF centres in the world to offer Reciprocal IVF in Natural Cycle.
We believe that little to no stimulation creates higher quality eggs. It also means fewer medicines, injections, side effects, clinic visits and lower costs. Little-to-no stimulation also means there is zero risk of hyperstimulation, low risk of multiple pregnancies and less physical and emotional stress for the mother to-be.

That said, we do balance both nature and science and are equipped with cutting-edge incubators, microscopes, and highly-trained technicians to guarantee that your delicate gametes have the highest chance of developing into healthy embryos.

NatuVitro is the first fertility clinic in Europe to have the Embryoscope Flex, a top-of-the-line incubator in our lab. It is considered to be the global gold standard in IVF incubators and we leverage its phenomenal technology in all of our treatments, including Natural Cycle IVF.

Who would best benefit from Natural Reciprocal IVF?
Same-sex female couples where the genetic mother is typically younger than 38 and has had no fertility issues, while the mother carrying the baby can be up to age 50. 
Do you have to be married to be able to undergo Natural Reciprocal IVF?

No, you do not. If you are a married couple and the child is born in Spain, Spanish Law legally recognises both women as the mothers of the baby.

If you are an unmarried couple and the child is born in Spain, Spanish Law currently only permits the birth mother to register the baby as her child and the genetic mother must go through an adoption process to become legally registered as the mother.

How long does the Natural Reciprocal IVF process take?
The entire process is based on your menstrual cycle and takes around 10 to 14 days. You can expect fewer injections, blood tests and scans. This less demanding protocol is less stressful, which is better for conception.
Egg retrieval without anesthesia sounds terrifying, is it painful?
No. The procedure is performed by a highly-skilled and experienced fertility doctor using very fine instruments. According to a survey conducted in Bern, 80% of women stated the puncture was no worse than having blood drawn. In over 3 000 cycles conducted in Bern, not a single patient had to halt the retrieval because of pain. After the puncture, which takes about 2 minutes, our patients may go home or even return to work.
Where are my embryos stored and for how long?
Preserving eggs, sperm, and embryos is an enormous responsibility. This is why we have state-of-the-art secure-access rooms equipped with sensors and alarms that are monitored around the clock. Sperm, be it your partner’s or a donor’s, can safely be stored for as long as is needed.
What happens after my Natural Reciprocal IVF treatment?
You can go home or straight back to work, it’s entirely up to you. We will ask you to come in for a pregnancy test in two weeks.
What are the pregnancy success rates for Natural Reciprocal IVF?
NatuVitro’s Natural Cycle IVF success rate per transfer is significantly higher than that of conventional IVF. The success rate of one stimulated IVF cycle is the equivalent of a maximum of 3 natural IVF cycles. This is not to say you will need 3 natural cycles to conceive. If you are young and healthy, you could conceive on your very first attempt.
What happens if I don't get pregnant?
We will reassess your circumstances after 3 to 4 rounds. If the treatment is looking promising, we can decide to continue. Alternatively, we may discuss Mild IVF as the next step. Naturally, you will be involved in every aspect of this decision-making process.
Is there a cut off age for treatment in Natural Reciprocal IVF?
Yes, Natural Cycle IVF is generally recommended for women below the age of 38. That said, it can be a viable option if you are older than 38 and are in excellent physical and emotional health. Let’s talk about a personalised option for you.

Artificial Insemination

What is Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle?
Artificial Insemination (AI) – also known as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) – is when healthy washed sperm is introduced directly inside the uterus during ovulation. This process greatly improves the chances of conceiving without having sexual intercourse.
Is Artificial Insemination a cure for infertility?
While it will definitely improve your chances of falling pregnant, it is better to think of Artificial Insemination as a way to get access to sperm without having sex.
If I am having regular sex but not conceiving, is Artificial Insemination the solution?

No. If you are having sex at least once to twice a week, our Natural Cycle IVF would be a better method of treatment to explore.

Is Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle an alternative to conventional stimulated Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?
Yes, absolutely. At NatuVitro we don’t use stimulation for the IUI cycle. This means that there is a low-to-no risk of multiple pregnancies and no risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Who would best benefit from Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle?

Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle is a good option for:

Women who are between 18 and 37* years old and are:

  • Physically able to conceive and carry a baby to term.
  • Wanting donor semen.
  • In a partnership requiring donor semen.

Men who are over 18 years of age and are:

  • Impotent /sterile or experience erectile dysfunction.
  • A carrier of infectious disease, such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and need sperm washing.
  • At risk of a hereditary or chromosomic disease and donor semen is needed for a healthy conception.

Couples who are:

  • Separated for long periods, making regular sexual intercourse difficult.
  • Struggling with physical pain or a psychological factor, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, which can interfere with sexual functioning.
How long does the Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle process take?
Everything we do centres around your body’s natural rhythm and menstrual cycle. The average Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle process takes between 10 to 14 days.
What is sperm washing?
HIV is found in the semen of HIV-positive men. To prevent the transmission of the virus, we wash the sperm using a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins at a high speed to concentrate and separate the sperm from the seminal fluid. The sperm is then twice purified in a solution to remove all unwanted substances, including HIV.
Is Artificial Insemination painful?
No. Many women say it is a lot like having a pap smear. And like a pap smear, the Artificial Insemination process begins with the insertion of a speculum to make the cervix visible. After that, your fertility expert will insert the thin, flexible catheter and inject the concentrated sperm solution. Given that the cervix is more relaxed during ovulation, the catheter insertion and removal is mostly painless. The entire procedure takes just over a minute.
Where is the sperm stored and how long has it been in storage?
Preserving eggs, sperm, and embryos is an enormous responsibility. This is why we have state-of-the-art secure-access rooms equipped with sensors and alarms that are monitored around the clock. Sperm, be it your partner’s or a donor’s, can safely be stored for as long as is needed.
I’ve had my Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle treatment. What now?
Directly after the procedure you can go home, to your hotel or even back to work. We will ask you to come in for a pregnancy test in two weeks’ time.
How long does it take for implantation to occur?
Implantation can take place anytime between 6 and 12 days after insemination. The first pregnancy test is typically performed two weeks after the procedure.
What are the pregnancy success rates for Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle?
Your success rate is greatly influenced by your age and the timing of the procedure. In other words, it is difficult to give you an accurate success rate, but your doctor will discuss this with you in person based on your personal set of circumstances.
What happens if I don't get pregnant?
As a rule of thumb, if you don’t conceive after 3 to 4 Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle treatments, we go back to the drawing board and look for alternative solutions.
Is there a cut-off age for treatment in Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle?
Artificial Insemination in Natural Cycle is generally recommended for women younger than 37. That said, it varies from woman to woman, and it can still be a viable option depending on your health and circumstances. Talk to us to learn more.

Egg Donation

What is IVF with Egg Donation?

IVF with Egg Donation is when a young woman donates some of her eggs to an intended mother who cannot produce quality eggs of her own. After the donor has undergone screening, stimulation and egg retrieval, the donor eggs are fertilised via IVF with your partner’s or donor sperm.

Using Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), our highly skilled embryologist injects a single sperm using a micro-needle directly into the donor egg. Inside the protected environment of the EmbryoScope Flex Incubator ®, they develop into a blastocyst (day-5 embryo). Your 100% unaltered blastocysts are now frozen (vitrified), which is necessary to synchronize with the implantation window. When your body is ready, the embryo will be transferred into your womb.

Why choose NatuVitro for my IVF with Egg Donation treatment?

Because at NatuVitro we select the best egg donor for you from our extensive database. We boast one of the most extensive databases for the selection of egg donors with different phenotypes (e.g. height, eye colour and blood type). Every single one of our donors undergoes rigorous medical and psychological screening. We insist that each donor is between the ages of 18 and 30 years old to ensure superior egg quality, is in a perfect state of health, doesn’t suffer from any STIs (sexually transmitted infections) or genetic diseases.

At NatuVitro we balance both nature and science so you can expect us to be equipped with cutting-edge incubators, microscopes, and highly trained technicians to guarantee that the delicate gametes of patients have the highest chance of developing into healthy embryos.

NatuVitro is the first fertility clinic in Europe to have the Embryoscope Flex [link to new incubator], a top-of-the-line incubator in our lab. It is considered to be the global gold standard in IVF incubators and we leverage its phenomenal technology in all of our treatments, including IVF with Donor Eggs.

Who would best benefit from IVF with Egg Donation treatment?

Women between the ages of 18 and 50* and who:

  • Are physically capable of carrying a baby.
  • Are experiencing age-related fertility decline.
  • Are experiencing premature ovarian failure.
  • Are the carrier of a hereditary or chromosomic disease and need donor eggs to conceive a healthy baby.
  • Have undergone radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment or surgical removal of the ovaries.
  • Have been diagnosed with Low Ovarian Reserve.
  • Have been diagnosed with Endometriosis.
  • Have had persistently poor-quality eggs and embryos during previous IVF cycles.
  • Haven’t enjoyed success with traditional fertility treatments.
Is it possible to choose an egg donor?
While Spain does not allow donor selection, NatuVitro has an extensive database of donors who we have screened to make sure all donors are medically, psychologically and legally fit. Based on your phenotypes, we manually search for a perfect match to your physical characteristics and select the best egg donor for you.
What screening do your donors undergo?
We have a highly selective and comprehensive screening process. Prospective donors complete a detailed questionnaire that’s reviewed by our team. Those who meet specific criteria will be invited to complete the additional screening, which involves meetings with our coordinator, a reproductive endocrinologist, a psychologist and a genetic counsellor.

The reproductive endocrinologist screens the donor from a medical perspective, while our psychologist screens the donor from a psychological perspective. Our board-certified genetic counsellor screens for a family history of birth defects or hereditary diseases by taking a comprehensive family history.

The prospective donor also undergoes a physical exam, cultures and blood tests to rule out infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, gonorrhoea and chlamydia. In addition, our donors are tested for their blood type and are screened for cystic fibrosis and inherited disorders related to haemoglobin, such as sickle cell anaemia or thalassemia, depending on ethnicity.

How long does the IVF with Egg Donation process take?
This is an extremely quick and simple process. You will need to visit us for 1 day for us to collect and freeze the sperm, complete the necessary paperwork and undergo a physical exam. Another separate day is needed for the transfer. All of this can be worked out according to your schedule and availability.
Is the embryo transfer painful?
The procedure has been likened to that of a pap smear. Some women may experience discomfort when the speculum is being inserted and others from having a full bladder, which is required to make the embryo transfer easier for the specialist. Overall, the procedure is quick and the bladder may be emptied right away.
Where are my embryos stored and for how long?

At NatuVitro, we understand that preserving eggs, sperm, and embryos for our patients is a significant responsibility that requires the highest care and consideration. As a result, we have state-of-the-art secure-access rooms with sensors and alarms that are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week so we can store what you require, for as long as you require.

What happens after my IVF with Egg Donation treatment?
You may go home or to work depending on how you are feeling. We will ask you back for a pregnancy test in two weeks.
What are the pregnancy success rates for IVF with Egg Donation?
IVF with Egg Donation is the most effective Assisted Reproduction technique. Success on the first attempt is very common.
What happens if I don't get pregnant?
We offer a pregnancy guarantee with a full refund should you not conceive within two years. To find out if you’re eligible for this refund agreement, please contact us to learn more.
How long do out of town patients undergoing IVF with Egg Donation have to stay in Barcelona?
Your local doctor, working in tandem with us, can carry out the endometrial preparation, ultrasound and blood tests. You would only need to come to Barcelona for the sperm collection and ultrasound (1 to 2 nights) and then again for the transfer (1 to 2 nights).
Is there a cut off age for IVF treatment using donor eggs?
Yes, IVF with Donor Eggs is generally recommended for women below the age of 50. However, it can be recommended for women older than 50, depending on their overall health and circumstances. Please contact us to talk about your options.

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