Egg Donor Screening

When a woman applies to be an egg donor, she undergoes a screening process designed to ensure her candidacy for the procedure.  To donate eggs, a woman must typically be between the ages of 21 and 34.  The screening process is rigorous, since egg donation has physical, legal, psychological, and emotional components.  Women considering egg donation can expect to undergo a medical exam, psychological evaluation, and assessments of their physical and personality characteristics.

Medical Evaluation

Initial Screening

The initial medical evaluation involves a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, drawing of blood samples, screening for infectious and inherited diseases or disorders, and measurement of hormone levels.  These tests are designed to detect preexisting health conditions that would affect a woman's candidacy. 

Family History

If no outstanding problems are found, the potential donor completes a detailed questionnaire about her family's medical and psychological history, as well as her lifestyle and substance use.   This provides a background of genetic problems and health hazards that could impair the egg donation process.

Psychological Evaluation

Since egg donation involves complex ethical, emotional, and social issues, potential egg donors should be in a sound psychological state to face these issues.  The psychological evaluation process is designed to help a woman discern her stance on egg donation, prevent emotional trauma, address her concerns about the process, and help ensure that she will fulfill her obligations to the recipient.

Assessment of Personal Characteristics

The potential donor's personal characteristics and preferences are assessed in order to provide potential recipients with an understanding of possible genetic traits of the fetus.  Some characteristics may include height, weight, race, eye color, interests, IQ, and hobbies.  These characteristics are compiled into a profile, which recipients will use to make their donor selection.

Contact an Infertility Specialist for Egg Donation Information

If you are interested in becoming an egg donor, you should locate a talented fertility specialist in your area to discuss your candidacy for egg donation.  A local physician can discuss the details of your candidacy and help guide your decision.