Report highlights shortage of ethnically matched egg donors for British Asian families

New figures from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) show that British Asian families continue to face challenges in accessing ethnically matched egg donors in the UK.

In 2023, only 65 Asian donors were recorded, making up 4% of the total donor pool, despite British Asians representing 14% of the relevant age group. By comparison, 1,140 White donors (88%) were recorded, broadly in line with their demographic share.

The shortage of donors has led to delays and limited options for many British Asian couples undergoing fertility treatment. Some turn to cross-ethnic donors, while others explore treatment abroad, which may not always be regulated to the same standards.

“This disparity stands out as one of the most critical barriers in fertility care,” says Dr Rima Rajkhowa, Medical Director of Gynaecology & Fertility, The Medical Travel Company. “Only 4% of donors are Asian, leaving families navigating heart-breaking compromises and systemic disadvantages at every stage of care.”

The HFEA figures also highlight other disparities in treatment. Patient satisfaction rates were lower among Asian patients, with only half reporting positive experiences compared with more than two-thirds of White patients. IVF success rates showed a similar trend, with Asian patients recording a 24% birth rate compared with 32% among White patients. Access to treatment was also unequal, as Asian patients were less likely to receive NHS-funded IVF and often faced longer waits. NHS cuts and rising pressures across fertility services have affected all groups, but Black and Asian patients were among those hardest hit.

According to the report, these combined factors contribute to unequal outcomes for British Asian families seeking fertility treatment in the UK.

A New Hope: The Medical Travel Company

In response to these inequities, The Medical Travel Company (TMTC) has launched a new integrated UK-India fertility care model that aims to provide culturally sensitive and timely treatment. Under this approach, patients begin consultations in the UK, undergo treatment in Indian clinics vetted by UK specialists with no waiting lists, and continue their follow-up care back home.

The pathway is designed to give patients access to a wider pool of Asian donors, offer faster treatment without years-long delays, and reduce costs by up to half compared to treatment in the UK. TMTC also emphasises the holistic and personalised nature of the care, with continuity between specialists in both countries.

For more information on The Medical Travel Company – visit this website.