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Steps in Becoming a Egg Donor

Egg donations have allowed many women who have infertility problems, or whose eggs are not viable, to become pregnant and have children. The first step in becoming an egg donor begins with finding a reputable egg donation center or fertilization clinic to ensure a positive and safe outcome for all parties involved.

  1. Donation Centers

    • Potential egg donors should investigate egg donation centers before donating. Donation centers may be found and investigated via the Better Business Bureau (BBC) and The American Fertility Association.

    Eligibility

    • Egg donors are usually in their early to late twenties. Most donation centers do not accept clients under the age of 21 or over the age of 35. Donors must also have a clean, healthy lifestyle to ensure viability of the eggs.

    Donor Screening

    • Background and health screenings are done on all potential donors. This includes physical exams, family medical history screening and psychological background checks.

    Legalities

    • Legal papers, including informed consent, confidentiality statements, release of rights or responsibilities and compensation contracts must be completed before the donation process begins.

    Egg Retrieval

    • Several weeks before donation, hormone medications are given to the donor to alter her natural egg cycle and to increase egg production. The retrieval procedure is done on an outpatient basis and last about 30 minutes.

    Compensation

    • Most donation centers offer monetary compensation to donors for their time and any medical costs incurred.

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