Egg donation is a process in which a fertile woman donates eggs (ova) to another woman to help her achieve pregnancy. This procedure is part of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). The process involves a doctor retrieving eggs from a donor, fertilizing them in a laboratory, and then transferring them to the recipient's uterus using a method such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Sometimes, some or all of the resulting embryos may be frozen for future use or implantation in different women. This article reviews donor selection criteria, the donation process, and legal considerations after egg donation.

What is Egg Donation?

Egg donation primarily benefits women who, for various reasons—such as ovarian failure, preventing genetic disorders, or advanced age—cannot use their own eggs. Fertility centers conduct thorough and precise screening of potential donors. Specialists follow a rigorous selection process to find suitable donors and carefully adhere to legal procedures.

Preparation for Donation

Before the donation process begins, most donors take medications to suppress their natural menstrual cycle. Side effects of these drugs may include:

  • Hot flashes

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

  • Body aches

Donors then receive fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs simultaneously—a process known as ovarian hyperstimulation. These medications are administered via subcutaneous or intramuscular injections. Some women may experience mild side effects such as injection site bruising, mood swings, and breast tenderness. In rare cases, there is a risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which requires hospitalization if severe.

Since donors can still become pregnant before egg retrieval, they are advised to avoid intercourse or use barrier contraception (e.g., condoms). Throughout the donation cycle, donors undergo frequent blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor their response to medications.

Egg Retrieval Process

Shortly before retrieval, the donor receives a final injection to prepare for the procedure. Using transvaginal ultrasound-guided aspiration, the doctor retrieves eggs from the ovaries. A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall to collect eggs from each follicle. This 30-minute procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia, and donors typically do not require hospitalization.

After Donation

Some donors need a few days of rest for recovery, while others resume normal activities immediately. While some programs offer follow-up care, others do not. The process can have psychological impacts, and post-donation counseling may be beneficial for some donors.

Risks and Side Effects

Risks associated with egg donation are generally low and similar to those of standard IVF. Anesthesia risks during retrieval are minimal, though rare complications may include:

  • Bleeding or infection

  • Injury to adjacent organs (e.g., bowel, bladder, blood vessels)
    Preventive antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce infection risk.

Donor Eligibility Criteria

Donors are typically aged 21–35 to ensure optimal egg quality and response to fertility drugs. They must be free of infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C) and genetic disorders (e.g., cystic fibrosis). A detailed family medical history is required, and individuals with high-risk medical backgrounds are ineligible.

Donor Screening

Reputable programs implement rigorous screening, which may include:

  • Application review

  • Phone or in-person interviews

  • Physical exams

  • Blood and drug tests

  • Ultrasound of reproductive organs

  • Medical and psychological history assessments

  • Infectious and genetic disease screening

Psychological Screening

Egg donation can be emotionally complex for both donors and recipients. Psychological evaluations ensure donors are making informed decisions and assess their emotional readiness.

When to Seek Medical Help

Donors should contact their doctor if they experience symptoms of OHSS, such as:

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Rapid weight gain

  • Abdominal pain

  • Vomiting
    Severe cases require hospitalization.

Conclusion

Egg donation has high success rates when using carefully screened donors. The process involves ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval under sedation, and a short recovery period. While physical and emotional side effects may occur, the procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated. Donors may be known or anonymous and are often compensated. Comprehensive screening minimizes risks of genetic disorders, and fertility centers clearly outline legal implications for all parties involved.