In the Egg Donor process, a woman provides her oocytes (eggs) to another woman or partner to enable assisted reproduction so that the recipient can have a baby.
The decision to be an egg donor is altruistic, despite the substantial financial compensation at the end of the procedure. The entire process begins with you, the donor understanding what is involved in egg donation, i.e., the procedure, legal aspects, criteria, etc.
Listed below are the steps you will need to take to become an egg donor:
Step 1- Learn about Egg Donor
Before engaging with an in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic, understand what is involved in egg donation. In the medical procedure, the doctor will retrieve mature eggs from your ovaries. To help the eggs mature, a series of hormonal injections will be administered into the donor.
After retrieving the eggs, they will be fertilized in a lab using the male partner’s sperm. The resulting embryo will be planted into the woman’s uterus. If successful implantation occurs, the woman will become pregnant. She will then carry the baby for the entire pregnancy.
Step 2- Research Clinics
Conduct an online search for IVF clinics in your area. Thoroughly research each one to assess their reputation. If possible, seek word-of-mouth reviews. Narrow your list down to three and make it a point to pay each a visit. After your visit, make your decision on your comfort and satisfaction level.
Step 3- Egg Donor Requirements
Each IVF clinic has its requirements before a woman can become a donor. Generally, these criteria are:
- Age (between 21 and 32, varies from clinic to clinic)
- Weight and height must be within a normal range
- No drug use or smoking
- Previous delivery preferred but not required
- Complete medical history covering your general health, family history, surgeries, etc.
- Gynecological examination
- Have both ovaries
- Healthy Body Mass Index
- Psychologically Sound
- Physically Active
- Various screening tests such as genetic history, medical, mental health, and sexually transmitted diseases
Due to the series of medical consultations, exams, and egg retrieval procedures, the donor must be willing to take some time off work.
Step 4- Form Completion and Acceptance
If you meet all the requirements mentioned by the IVF clinic, you will be required to complete a form. This may be online or in person. The form is lengthy and will ask for specific details.
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Once the clinic receives your application, it will be methodically reviewed. If accepted, you will be contacted by the clinic and asked to come in.
Step 5- Explanation of the Procedure/Process
After you arrive for your first appointment, the clinician will sit with you and explain the entire procedure, including the hormonal injections you will have to take, financial compensation, what happens after the procedure, etc.
Becoming an egg donor is an enormous responsibility. If you have any concerns, this is the time to alleviate them.
Step 6- Start of the Process
If you agree with the steps entailed in egg donation, begin the process by asking you to undergo a series of medical and psychological tests. All medical expenses are paid for by the recipient.
Your decision to be an egg donor provides hope to couples struggling to have a baby.