This special assisted reproduction technique is aimed at couples where the cause of infertility is an insufficient number of oocytes. The patient may also suffer from a genetic disorder. Ovarian insufficiency, which is generally rare under the age of 35, becomes more frequent in older women and is the main cause of infertility after the age of 40.

Legal limits

Oocyte donation is authorised in Belgium in women up to the age of 47 as long as the plan to have children began before the patient was 45 years old. Oocyte donation is free. It can be anonymous or directed.

Reimbursement

Laboratory costs are covered by the receiving patient’s health insurance fund if she meets the general reimbursement criteria for IVF (under 43 years old, 6 attempts throughout her lifetime, previous IVF attempts included). The medication required for the treatment of the donor is not reimbursed.

At Saint-Pierre University Hospital

We are only involved in directed oocyte donation; the infertile couple concerned chooses the woman who is going to give them her oocytes. It is often a woman from the couple’s entourage, who is aware of their difficulties in having a child and who is willing to donate her oocytes. It is an unusual ethical choice especially since it involves in vitro fertilization treatment and the resulting possible medical consequences.

The procedure

Requirements

In practical terms