US fertility provider introduces facial recognition technology in third-party reproduction

California egg bank Lucina has added facial recognition technology to its platform, hoping to transform the landscape of egg donor selection in the US.

The platform uses facial recognition technology to help intended parents find their ideal donor match, thus modernising the traditional egg donor search and bringing more personalisation to the process, Lucina argues.

The algorithm extracts and codes facial features from a provided photo, subsequently comparing this anonymised “map” with the company’s donor database.

By allowing users to find donors with similar physical appearances, the feature aims to enhance the connection between parents and egg donors.

A substantial 12 per cent of all IVF cycles in the US, about 16,000 a year, involve eggs retrieved from a donor, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As the largest fertility industry in the world, the US could benefit from the application of facial recognition technology in third-party reproduction.

Dr David Harari, president and chief medical officer of Lucina Egg Bank, said: “With Lucina ReflEggction, we’re revolutionising the entire egg donor selection process.

“It’s an empowering, time-saving solution that we believe will redefine the future of third-party reproduction.”

He added: “By being the first to introduce this sophisticated technology in egg donor matching, we are reimagining the entire journey towards parenthood.

“Lucina ReflEggction simplifies, accelerates, and personalises the selection process, ensuring our patients find their perfect match quickly and securely.

“The technology is a testament to Lucina Egg Bank’s commitment to innovation, aiming to shape the future of third-party reproduction and continuing to stand as an industry leader.”