Donor vs. own eggs in IVF: what new research shows

For many people going through in vitro fertilization (IVF), one of the biggest decisions is whose eggs (oocytes) to use: their own (autologous) or a donor's. Because egg quality declines with age, donor eggs from younger women are often considered when a person's own eggs are unlikely to work. A 2024 study asked a narrower question: once an embryo has already tested as chromosomally normal (euploid), does it matter whether the egg came from the patient or a donor?

What the 2024 study looked at

The study, published in Fertility and Sterility, compared single frozen euploid embryo transfers in patients of advanced maternal age, matching embryos from patients' own eggs with embryos from donor eggs. According to the published abstract, there were no statistically significant differences in live birth rate, implantation rate, ectopic pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, length of gestation, or infant birth weight between the two groups.

What the findings do and do not mean

• They apply to euploid embryos. The comparison was between embryos that had already passed genetic testing for aneuploidy. It does not mean that a person's own eggs and donor eggs give similar chances overall. Older patients usually produce fewer eggs and fewer euploid embryos, which is why age still matters so much in IVF.
• Embryo chromosomes matter most. The authors conclude that poorer IVF outcomes at older reproductive ages are heavily driven by embryonic aneuploidy (embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes).
• It is one retrospective study. Results from other clinics, age groups, and patient populations may differ, and more research is needed.

Implications for Patients

If you have euploid embryos from your own eggs, this research suggests their chance of leading to a live birth may be similar to that of euploid embryos from donor eggs. If you are struggling to create euploid embryos with your own eggs, donor eggs remain an option to discuss with your doctor.

Other things to consider

• Genetic connection: Some people strongly prefer a genetic link to their child, while others are comfortable with donor conception.
• Emotional support: Using donor eggs is a significant decision. The UK regulator HFEA notes that going through a clinic means donors receive health checks and that information and counselling are part of the process.
• Waiting times: The HFEA also notes that waiting lists for donors can be long.
• Testing trade-offs: Embryo testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) adds cost. The HFEA rates it red for improving the chance of having a baby for most patients, because it often reduces the number of embryos available, though it rates it green for reducing miscarriage.

A reproductive endocrinologist can help you weigh these factors based on your age, test results, and goals.