Q. How long is a typical egg donation cycle?
A. The calendar for egg donation cycles depends on your availability and the timing of your menstrual cycle, as well as the recipient’s availability and menstrual cycle. For these reasons, a cycle may range from a few weeks to two months or more. However, before beginning this process, a donor must be “selected” by a recipient or recipient couple and this can sometimes take several months.

Q. Does it hurt to donate eggs?
A. During the stimulation phase, a donor might experience some bloating and irritability. The egg retrieval is done under sedation so a donor will not experience pain during the procedure. After the procedure, a donor will generally feel tired from the sedation and she may experience some bleeding and / or cramping. This usually goes away by the next day but can last up to a week or longer.

Q. What are the risks?
A. The primary risk is a condition called OHS (Ovarian Hyper-stimulation Syndrome). OHS is very rare due to the careful monitoring that is done by your physician. Symptoms include weight gain and a feeling of extreme bloating. Also, as with any procedure, a risk of infection exists. You will likely be given antibiotics to decrease the risk of infection. Donors are advised to review the risks with their physician.

Q. How many times can I donate?
A. Many donors donate more than once. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine recommends no more than 6 donations in a donor’s lifetime.

Q. How long do I need to wait in between donation cycles?
A. Typically, an IVF physician will request that a donor have two regular periods between donation cycles.

Q. Will I have to travel?
A. Travel will depend upon where you live, and where the recipient’s IVF center is located. Many intended parent(s) are working with doctors in Southern California. If you live outside of Southern California, you will likely need to travel. If you are not willing to travel and live outside of Southern California this may impact the time that it takes for you to be matched.

Q. Can I become a donor at a distance?
A. It is possible. If the future parents chose you, and you can not travel to California, they can go to your country to receive your eggs. If they are not able  to travel either, then there is also a possibility of freezing your eggs and transferring them to the  intended parents.

Q. Will I meet the parent(s)?
A. Most donations are anonymous. The decision to make a donation “open” requires both parties to agree. We will help facilitate a phone call or meeting in this situation.

Q. Will I Be Compensated?
A. Egg donors are compensated for their gift. Our donors receive $7,000 for their first donation. Experienced and high demand donors will be compensated an additional amount. Please call our office for more information: +1(818)9709639.