The process of embryo adoption is unique to the United States. In vitro fertilization is a medical procedure that is used worldwide to help couples conceive a child, and because of that, there are remaining embryos in frozen storage around the world waiting for the chance at life. The growing issue of what to do with those remaining embryos has prompted more couples to explore their options.

Australia is one country experiencing an increase in the number of inquiries about  donated embryos from couples looking for ways to complete their family building. In response to the increased number of inquiries, IVF Australia launched a new website that will match embryo donors with recipient families. Families must undergo counseling before they are able to register as potential recipients, after which they’ll create a profile with their personal information for donors to explore. Donors have the chance to get to know the families and choose one they think will be a good fit for the embryos they are donating. This is a similar system to the one used by embryo adoptions agencies in the United States, who have found that an open adoption format is best for all parties involved.

Australia has experienced a 20% increase in the number of embryo donations from 2010 to 2011, and those numbers have been climbing ever since. In the United States embryo adoption is an affordable option for couples who cannot afford the in vitro fertilization process. For couples who have undergone IVF and have a moral objection to the destruction of their remaining embryos, embryo donation gives them the opportunity to find loving homes for their embryos with couples who want to be parents. If you’d like to learn more about embryo adoption and donation, visit www.embryoadoption.org.

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