The impact of egg donation on the parent-child bond

Starting a family through egg donation is a beautiful and empowering path to parenthood! However, we know that this wonderful and life-changing experience raises questions for many intended parents. One in particular is regarding the bond parents share with their donor-conceived children. 

At Chosen Egg Bank, we understand these concerns and are here to help relieve your worries! That’s why we’ve put together this informative blog to shed some light on the donor egg child experience and how egg donation impacts the parent-child bond

Donor eggs and genetics

It’s natural to consider the role that genetics may play as your child grows. Although having children through egg donation means they won’t share your genetics, every other aspect of family will still hold true! They will share your home, routine, values, laughter, and above all else, your love. 

Genetics serve as only one thread in the complex tapestry of identity. Parents shape their children most through emotional support, stability, and day-to-day interactions. Many parents find that the experience of having a child through IVF and egg donation brings them even closer to their children, having overcome challenges and made thoughtful, loving decisions to bring them into the world!

The donor egg child’s experience

As your child grows, they may naturally begin to be curious about their origin. Although this may be a challenging conversation to have when the time comes, it is nothing to be afraid of. Having age-appropriate conversations, which may happen between the preschool and school-age years, helps children form a positive self-identity. 

Most children who learn about their donor conception early and in a loving environment grow up feeling secure and connected to their families. For children aged 10 to 23, their understanding of identity deepens, and it’s important to be available for honest conversations. Donor-conceived individuals often report strong relationships with their parents, even after they become aware of their conception story!

How to explain IVF to a child

Parents often ask, How do I explain IVF to my child? Start simple and be age-appropriate! For younger children, roughly between the ages of 3 to 7 years old, picture books and simple explanations are a great way to start. For children 10 years and older, compassionately explaining with simple science is also very effective. 

Explain with love and share that you wanted to bring them into the world very much, and that a generous egg donor was able to help make your dream come true! Above all else, you be the judge — only you can know what your child is ready for and capable of understanding, so proceed based on your circumstances!

Creating a strong and loving future

Having a child through IVF using donor eggs is not just a medical process — it’s a deeply emotional and courageous act of love. The impact of egg donation on the parent-child bond is overwhelmingly positive when rooted in openness, emotional support, and intentional parenting. 

You are your child’s parent in every way that counts. And in choosing to bring your child into the world through IVF and donor eggs, you’ve already begun a story built on hope, strength, and unconditional love!

At Chosen Egg Bank, our goal is to help you at every step of your fertility journey. We are here to help you feel ready to start your family, both physically and emotionally. We hope you found this blog to be insightful, whether you’re considering egg donation or have already welcomed your child to the world. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to us here. Or, to start looking for your ideal egg donor, register for our donor database here. We hope to hear from you soon!