Becoming an Egg Donor

Egg donors are a great help to couples who experience fertility problems and would like to start a family. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions concerning egg donors and egg donation.

Q. I think I would like to become an egg donor. How do I know if I am qualified?

A. Prospective egg donors are thoroughly evaluated to be sure that they are good candidates for egg donation. This includes a complete medical screening to ensure that you do not have any preexisting medical conditions. It also includes a psychological evaluation. Your concerns will be addressed, and your questions will be answered.

Q. Why is there a cut-off age for becoming an egg donor? Isn’t this unfair to older women?

A. The age limit for egg donors is for medical reasons. If a person is over 35 years of age, her eggs are likely to not be as healthy as eggs in younger women. Young women who are under age 21 have special issues, including being under legal age, and their bodies not having had enough time to mature. Limiting egg donation to women between the ages of 21 and 35 is acceptable to most physicians and egg donation clinics.

Q. Does it matter whether a woman is married, or whether she already has children of her own?

A. These factors usually do not influence whether one is selected to donate eggs or not. However, if you have a husband or children who are old enough to completely understand the process and implications of egg donation, it can be helpful to include them as much as possible.

Q. If I donate my eggs, does this mean I will have contact with the child or children who result from them?

A. In most instances, egg donation is an anonymous process. In some cases, however, the recipient is aware of the donor’s identity. In these instances, the decision is up to the recipient, and should be made known before you agree to donating your eggs.

Q. Will I be paid for egg donation?

A. While egg donors usually are paid, it is considered to be compensation rather than payment for the eggs themselves. Donating eggs requires your time, a small amount of risk, and the desire to help others.