As an egg donor, you play a vital role in helping families who cannot have a biological child of their own, including queer couples and those with medical conditions. The egg donation process is deeply personal for both recipients and donors, and your health and well-being are paramount throughout this journey.

Determining Your Eligibility to Be an Egg Donor

Most egg banks have specific criteria for potential egg donors, which typically include:

• Age between 21 and 31
• Regular menstrual periods
• Within 20 pounds of ideal body weight
• Non-smoker
• Free from significant medical or mental illnesses

If you meet these criteria, you will undergo screening for inheritable diseases and medical tests for conditions that can affect fertility and overall health, such as:

• Syphilis
• Hepatitis A/B/C
• HIV (AIDS)
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia

Testing includes blood tests, a pelvic exam, and cervical cultures. Additionally, you will complete a psychological evaluation to discuss the emotional aspects of the egg donation process.

The Steps to Becoming an Egg Donor

After successful screening, you may proceed to egg retrieval. Your eggs can be either frozen or matched with a recipient needing fresh donor eggs. Egg donation is usually anonymous, ensuring privacy for both you and the recipient. However, you can opt to disclose your identity if you wish.

Be aware that DNA testing services like Ancestry and 23andMe may allow biological connections in the future, but reputable egg banks will never release your identity without your consent.

Egg Retrieval Process

Egg retrieval is the primary procedure for donors. You will work with an IVF team and may receive hormone injections to boost egg production. The procedure takes about an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll go home the same day. It’s generally pain-free, though you might experience minor cramping and bloating afterward. Your doctor will discuss any potential risks with you in detail.

Understanding Egg Donor Compensation

Compensation for egg donors typically ranges from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the egg bank and your location. Reputable egg banks will provide a detailed breakdown of compensation before you begin the process.

Why Choose Pacific NW Fertility

At Pacific NW Fertility, we offer trusted in-house frozen and fresh donor programs. Our team works closely with potential donors to ensure you are a great fit for our program, playing an essential role in creating new families.

Whether you’re considering becoming an egg donor or are a prospective parent, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our fertility specialists.