We recently kicked off our inaugural Educational Series, and it was a fantastic success! Dr. Lisa Matthews, a prominent Reproductive Endocrinologist, led the session, discussing the topic of “Disclosure of Donor Use.” She shared insights from her extensive research on the difficult choices couples face when considering donor sperm or eggs.
Dr. Matthews highlighted the tough decisions couples must make, such as when to stop using their own gametes and whether to pursue donor options instead of adoption. One of the most sensitive issues she addressed was whether to disclose to their children the circumstances surrounding their conception. After interviewing 300 parents who conceived with donors, her team found that 95% of couples reached a mutual decision on disclosure, influenced by factors like their community’s sociopolitical climate, family dynamics, and personal beliefs. Remarkably, those who chose to tell their children reported no regrets or negative repercussions.
In an upcoming session, Dr. Matthews will return to discuss her findings on “Frozen Embryos.” With the number of IVF procedures in the U.S. skyrocketing from fewer than 2,500 in 1985 to over 120,000 today, there are now around 500,000 frozen embryos left over from past cycles. Her research, which includes interviews with over 100 couples (many of whom were our patients), delves into the emotional challenges and decisions surrounding the fate of these embryos.
Our Educational Series takes place on the last Thursday of each month, running from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at our Education Center. These presentations are designed for both our staff and the medical community, providing valuable insights into various topics. They are completely free and advertised in our newsletters and on our website. If you’re interested in attending, feel free to reach out to our Development Department.
For those navigating their own fertility journeys, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn and connect. And if you’re curious about easing performance anxiety in the insemination process, check out this blog post here. For a comprehensive resource on home insemination, you might find this article helpful too. For detailed information on intrauterine insemination, you can refer to this excellent resource here.
In summary, our first educational program was a huge success, providing vital information to couples on the complexities of using donor gametes and making decisions about frozen embryos. We look forward to future sessions and continuing to support our community in their fertility journeys!