IVF, Egg Donation & Surrogacy: Expert Answers from Dr. Sadikah Behbehani
- ACRC Global
- Oct 14
- 4 min read
Featuring insights from our webinar with Dr. Sadikah Behbehani, board‑certified OB‑GYN specializing in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and reproductive endocrinology & infertility.
“Our job is to screen carefully and give your baby the best chance at a healthy start.” Dr. Sadikah Behbehani
At ACRC Global, we know every fertility path is unique. This recap brings together the most asked questions from Intended Parents—covering when to consider IVF, whether to try with your own eggs at 40, how to choose a Surrogate, PCOS options, embryo timelines, safety, and how to prepare.
1) How long should we try before seeing a fertility specialist?
Under 35: Try naturally for ~12 months; ~85% of couples conceive within the first year. If not, consult a specialist.
35 and older: Seek a consult after ~6 months to avoid losing valuable time.
Immediate consults: If there are known factors (e.g., blocked or removed fallopian tubes, prior chemotherapy affecting sperm), see a specialist sooner.
Why an early visit helps: Testing can confirm everything is healthy—or surface issues early so you can plan appropriately.
2) Age 40: IVF with my own eggs or consider an Egg Donor?
It depends on ovarian reserve (egg count/quality), assessed via bloodwork and ultrasound.
If your reserve is promising, a cycle with your own eggs is reasonable. Embryos are typically chromosome‑screened before transfer to reduce miscarriage risk.
If response is poor or embryos are not viable, Egg Donation becomes a strong option. Donor eggs are usually from younger Donors (often ≤30), which lowers the chance of chromosomal issues.
Mindset matters: Many Intended Parents prefer to try one cycle with their own eggs first, so there are no regrets before exploring Egg Donation.
“The uterus does not age as quickly as the ovaries. A high‑quality embryo can still implant well.” — Dr. Behbehani
what should we look for?
We follow a strict, health‑first screening process so you’re matched with a Surrogate who can safely carry.
Key criteria Dr. Behbehani recommends:
Age: Preferably ≤35 (generally not >40).
Health & BMI: Non‑obese, overall good health, no significant unmanaged conditions.
Proven pregnancies: Prior healthy pregnancies and deliveries (no severe complications such as eclampsia; review of OB/hospital records required).
C‑section history: Typically no more than two prior C‑sections.
Lifestyle: No tobacco, marijuana, alcohol misuse, or illicit drugs. (ACRC Global also tests partners in the household.)
Mental health: No uncontrolled depression, bipolar disorder, or conditions that impair safe decision‑making during pregnancy.
Motivation: A healthy, altruistic reason to help Intended Parents build their family.
4) I have PCOS. Is IVF my only option?
Not necessarily. Options include:
Ovulation pills at home to induce ovulation and try naturally.
Ovulation induction + insemination (IUI).
IVF offers the highest success rates, reduces miscarriage risk via embryo chromosome testing, and enables sex selection only when clinically appropriate and requested by the family.
“PCOS patients often have a strong egg reserve; we simply tailor protocols to avoid overstimulation.” — Dr. Behbehani
5) Is IVF safe? Any long‑term effects?
IVF has been practiced since 1978. Most increased risks are linked to multiple gestations (twins/triplets). That’s why we prioritize single‑embryo transfer whenever appropriate. For singleton pregnancies, small increases in certain risks may exist, but technology and prenatal care help us manage them. Your care plan will be individualized.
6) How long can embryos stay frozen?
With modern rapid vitrification, high‑quality embryos thaw well and remain usable for many years—even 10+ years. Many families keep embryos frozen until their family is complete, paying an annual storage fee. Later, you may:
Use for future pregnancy
Donate to research
Donate to other families
Or elect to discard (a personal decision)
7) How long does egg retrieval take?
Stimulation: ~10 days of injections starting with your period (some priming may be recommended).
Clinic visits: Quick ultrasound + bloodwork every 2–3 days.
Retrieval day: Brief procedure; take the rest of the day to rest.
Back to routine: Most people resume normal activities the next day.
“It’s roughly two weeks out of your life that can preserve your options for years.” Dr. Behbehani
8) After egg retrieval, when is embryo transfer?
Embryos grow to day‑5 blastocyst before biopsy. Genetic results typically return in ~2–3 weeks. Then prepare the uterus (Surrogate or Intended Mother) with hormones for ~10 days plus 5 days of progesterone before transfer.
Fastest timeline (if all testing is complete): ~3 weeks to get results + ~2 weeks to prepare the uterus → transfer in about 5 weeks from retrieval.
9) How to prepare for the best outcome
Lifestyle: Nourishing diet, consistent movement (walks, Pilates, etc.), quality sleep.
Stress care: Meditation; consider acupuncture if accessible.
Supplements: Prenatal vitamins; ask your physician about egg‑quality support.
Mindset: Visualize success. Create small rituals (e.g., a tiny onesie on the wall) to connect with your goal.
Partnership: Communicate openly; consider a fertility coach, therapist, or peer support group.
10) Final encouragement for new Intended Parents
This path can be demanding—emotionally, physically, and financially. With the right team, thoughtful pacing (no shortcuts), and a Surrogate or treatment plan that truly fits, the destination is worth it. We’re here to advocate for you every step of the way.
About Dr. Sadikah Behbehani
Board‑certified OB‑GYN specializing in minimally invasive GYN surgery and reproductive endocrinology & infertility. Currently at the Center for Endometriosis and Fertility. In webinar Q&A with ACRC Global, Dr. Behbehani shares clear, compassionate guidance for Intended Parents.
ACRC Global is an international fertility and Surrogacy partner supporting Intended Parents around the world with trusted Surrogate, Egg Donors, and clinical partners. Offices in Tokyo, New York City, Irvine California, and Spain.
Our Promise: rigorous Surrogate screening; individualized matching; transparent support from first consult to postpartum.
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