The past couple of months have been like nothing we have ever experienced so far. Covid-19 has undoubtedly affected the entire world, and egg donation is no exception. As stated […]
The past couple of months have been like nothing we have ever experienced so far. Covid-19 has undoubtedly affected the entire world, and egg donation is no exception. As stated in an earlier social media post, there are many new travel restrictions due to the coronavirus. Millions of people have lost their jobs, and money is tighter for many families and companies.
However, despite the disruption, couples still want to start families and AsiaWest for one, is still dedicated to our mission of helping these hopeful couples achieve that goal.
Egg donation is up and running, albeit with some changes. Clinics are taking all sorts of measures to ensure the safety of their patients and workers. Typical Covid-19 practices of taking people’s temperatures upon arrival, physical distancing, and requiring mask-wearing during clinic visits are the new normal. Increased sanitary policies are being implemented, such as regular handwashing amongst staff and patients and routine cleaning of the work environment.
Visits and in-person meetings look different for both egg donors and intended parents. Some clinics are not allowing you to bring another person with you to the visit as an extra precaution, but they will allow FaceTime/video calls for some visits. Many clinics are making an effort to have appointments that do not require ultrasound, bloodwork, or a surgical procedure, done virtually. However, the donation process does require in-person appointments. For those who do need to travel, there are ways to do so safely during Covid-19 (see the CDC travel recommendations).
Here at AsiaWest, you can still apply to be an egg donor or as intended parents.
AsiaWest has taken necessary precautions to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. We are currently working mostly from home and conducting meetings over Zoom when possible. Virtual consults are the same in structure and content as in-person consultations – plus you get to do it from the comfort of your own home!
Coronavirus has not negatively impacted AsiaWest economically. If anything, we have experienced an increased volume of egg donor applications and matches in the past couple months! We are continuing to grow and are excited to work with more donors and families in the future.
Finally, we understand that this is a difficult time and we will continue to support our clients. Here are some tips for coping/taking care of yourself, whether you are involved in egg donation or not:
Face Covering Facts (Oregon Health Authority)
How to Protect Yourself and Others From Covid-19 (Oregon Health Authority)
Stress Reducing Strategies For Patients (Ali Domar, Ph.D. Director of Integrative Care, Boston IVF and Elizabeth Grill, Psy.D. Associate Professor of Psychology, Weill Medical College of Cornell)
Covid-19 Coping (ASRM Mental Health Professionals Group)
Pregnant and Worried About the Coronavirus? (Harvard Medical School)