What Does It Mean to Be an Egg Donor?
An egg donor is a woman who voluntarily provides her eggs (oocytes) to help individuals or couples who are unable to conceive with their own eggs. This process is a key part of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and is typically used in cases where the intended mother is unable to produce viable eggs due to age, medical conditions, or genetic factors.
The process begins with an extensive screening of the donor’s physical and mental health, as well as her family medical history, to ensure she is a good candidate. Once accepted, the donor undergoes hormonal treatment to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then harvested through a minor surgical procedure.
Egg donors are compensated for their time, effort, and commitment. In some cases, donors may have the opportunity to remain anonymous, while others may choose to be known to the recipients of their eggs.
Being an egg donor is a deeply impactful way to help others build their families, and the process is designed to ensure the donor’s safety, comfort, and well-being throughout.
Surrogate Qualifications
We’re looking for compassionate, dedicated women who meet the following qualifications to ensure a safe and successful journey for everyone involved.
Health & Wellness
Candidates must be 21–42 years old (up to 45 in some cases) with a BMI of 19–30, or up to 33 with a fitness plan. Surrogates must have had at least one healthy pregnancy and delivery to qualify.
Stable Lifestyle
Applicants should maintain a stable, substance-free living environment. A reliable support person is essential to provide emotional and practical assistance throughout the journey.
Mental Readiness
Surrogates must pass a psychological evaluation to confirm emotional readiness and resilience. This ensures a positive and supported experience for everyone involved.
1. Application Process
We begin with a detailed application to assess your eligibility. This includes reviewing your medical history, lifestyle, and family genetics.
Scientific Insight: Our criteria ensure donors have a healthy ovarian reserve and no hereditary conditions, using tools like genetic screening and lifestyle evaluations.
2. Matching with Intended Parents
Your profile is added to a secure database where intended parents choose a donor based on traits such as health history, genetic compatibility, and personal characteristics.
Scientific Insight: Genetic markers and phenotypic traits are reviewed to ensure compatibility and reduce the risk of inherited conditions.
3. Psychological Evaluation
Before proceeding, you’ll meet with a mental health professional to discuss your motivation and ensure you’re emotionally ready for the process.
Scientific Insight: Standardized psychological assessments evaluate emotional readiness and help address potential concerns, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.
4. Medical Screening
Once matched, you’ll complete a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Scientific Insight:
• Hormone Testing: Measures levels like AMH and FSH to evaluate ovarian function.
• Ultrasound: Checks your ovarian reserve by counting antral follicles.
• Genetic Testing: Screens for conditions that could be passed to offspring.
5. Legal Agreements
You’ll work with an attorney to review and sign a legal agreement that protects your rights and clarifies your responsibilities.
Scientific Insight: The agreement incorporates medical findings, such as genetic screening results, to ensure informed decision-making.
7. Monitoring Appointments
Throughout the medication process, you’ll attend several short clinic visits for monitoring.
Scientific Insight:
• Ultrasounds: Track follicular development to ensure healthy growth.
• Blood Tests: Measure estrogen levels to adjust medications and prevent complications like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
8. Egg Retrieval Procedure
When your follicles are ready, the eggs are retrieved in a short outpatient procedure using sedation.
Scientific Insight:
• Transvaginal Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration: A thin needle retrieves eggs directly from the follicles.
• Viability: Eggs are placed in a nutrient-rich medium to preserve their health for fertilization.
9. Post-Retrieval Care
You’ll receive aftercare instructions and attend a follow-up appointment to ensure a smooth recovery.
Scientific Insight: Your body naturally begins to heal, with hormone levels returning to normal as the follicles recover.
10. Compensation and Final Steps
You’ll receive your compensation, completing your egg donation journey.
Scientific Insight: Women are born with millions of eggs, and egg retrieval does not affect your future fertility, as your body regularly replenishes its supply.
