Hi Sally
I did egg share for my last ivf. We were given lots of info and advise, we even had to have counselling to make sure we were aware of all the emotional and legal issues involved. I have to say that
DH and I had no problems or doubts at all and even though our attempt didn't work we don't regret it at all. I did think I might wonder about the couple who received the eggs but so far I haven't really. I really honestly hope they were lucky and that their dreams can come true. I do not think of it in any way shape or form as part of me. We were given the choice to find out if they were sucessful or not and we choose not to know ( not all clinics give this option).
This was our 4th attempt at ivf although only our 1st donating eggs. We are currently looking for a new hospital as we have moved house and the new hospital wants to know if the recipient was sucessfull in order to decide if they will let us egg share again. I think this is because we have had so many attempts without a +tive.
I don't know what questions you want answering or why you think it sounds too good to be true, if you want to ask in more detail I will try and help. I think the really important thing is to understand that it is not just a cheap option to do ivf ( although it does make a huge difference) , it is going to help another couple have the chance to fulfill their own dreams.
The problems can arise when the child is old enough to find you and how you would deal with that (
DH and I have no problem at all with that, infact I would really welcome it) and the fact that you can't go and find the child, again we have no problem with that but it may effect other people differenty. The law also states that if the mother giving the egg has any other children of her own, those children have a right to be told about the egg sharing and the right to look up any potential half brothers or sisters.
One thing i would recommend if you have the choice, I wrote a message to the potential child explaining why I gave the eggs away and how it was all done out of love and that they were a special child that was so badly wanted. I also explained a little about myself and my family and wished them love. It has made me feel better and offers me comfort to know that the child will acknowledge the love and care involved in the process.
Hope some of this helps.
I am staying with family at the moment waiting for our new house, so on Brothers computer but will try and answer any questions as soon as I can x p.s excuse spelling also - yes I am English but rely on spell check too often lol ! I have a very good German friend and keep asking if she'll teach me German and she jokes " yes when I've taught you English" she's right aswell !!! Good luck x