Is Being an Egg Donor Right for Me?

This is one of the most common questions that a woman can have when choosing to be an egg donor. It is a selfless and rewarding experience. Yet, it is not for everyone. If you are considering becoming an egg donor, here are some helpful topics to assist you in making the right decision, for you.

The baby will have a DNA connection to you

The egg is coming from you, the egg donor. Although you will not have any legal obligation to the baby, some women have a difficult time knowing that they have a child “out in the world” with their DNA. It is perfectly normal to think and feel that way! That is why agencies suggest that you think about if you are ready.
Being an egg donor is a commitment

Being an egg donor means that you will have appointments. You will have a medical and physical screening, psychological screening, and need to take medications. Medications and injections are very time sensitive, but your agency can help you come up with an easy way to help you remember. Apps are now immensely popular and can be especially useful for things like this. Clinics will be flexible with your appointments, to help make this journey go smoothly for you. You should plan to be at the clinic for 3 hours on your retrieval day, but the procedure takes about 15-20 minutes. That’s it!The main time commitment is the matching process. Matching with the intended parents can be a long process. If you are chosen as an egg donor, you will get the choice if you would like to be matched. If you choose to match, congrats! If not, do not give up!
You are ok with traveling

Traveling will be required as an egg donor. If the clinic is local to you, that is much easier on you! You may feel a bit overwhelmed, however, your egg donor case manager will be right by your side throughout your journey; especially while you are traveling. The location of the clinic will depend on where the intended parents choose for you to donate. If It is not local to you, you can expect to be away for a few days, maybe up to a week depending how far you must travel.Traveling can be a bit lonely and the process can be overwhelming. One of the perks of being an egg donor is being able to take a companion with you. Not only is it necessary for safety reasons (i.e. You will be under a general anesthesia), but it can be comforting knowing you have someone you trust by your side. Many egg donors like to think of the trips as a mini vacay! You get a car, hotel, etc. and can go to the beach – if you’re lucky to be near one!
You are ok with self-administering injections

Part of the process to be an egg donor is self-administering shots. It can sound daunting; however, the clinic will help you feel confident. The fertility doctor will know what injections you will need to have a successful retrieval, and it is always a good idea to ask all concerning questions you may have. You can plan to have daily injections for 10 – 12 days.No matter what you choose, you have a kind heart! Being an egg donor is extremely rewarding and a lifelong memory. Talk it out with your significant other, family, or even friends, to ensure you are ready for this incredible journey.