Egg donation is a life-changing decision that can make a difference in many people’s lives. With one in six individuals in the UK affected by infertility, egg donation can provide a path to parenthood for those in need. If you are thinking about donating your eggs, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Some individuals are unable to produce viable eggs due to various reasons, such as medical conditions affecting their fertility or treatments like chemotherapy. Additionally, LGBTQ+ couples and co-parents may choose to use egg donation. For example, same-sex male couples may wish to have a child through surrogacy and the surrogate may not want to use their eggs. In such cases, egg donation offers these individuals the opportunity to have the child they have always wanted.
Egg donation is a procedure where a woman has some of her eggs collected, which can then be used by another individual in fertility treatment or for research. Due to a national shortage of healthy donor eggs and a growing demand, egg donation has become vital for individuals and couples looking to have a child.
We understand donating your eggs can feel overwhelming, however, it is a simple process. Here’s how it works:
Get in touch – Fill out an application form online. A member of our medical team will then send you a medical questionnaire to assess your eligibility.
Consultation – You will be scheduled for a fertility assessment and consultation at your nearest TFP Fertility clinic.
During the fertility assessment we will analyse your ovarian reserve, which includes evaluating the total number and quality of eggs you have as well as conducting an antral follicle count. This is where you’ll undergo a transvaginal ultrasound to measure the number of small, fluid-filled sacs containing unmatured eggs, giving us an indication of your egg supply. Your results and medical history will help us decide if you’re a suitable egg donor.
Counselling – We offer counselling sessions, to address any questions or concerns you may have. A counsellor will discuss in detail the implications of becoming an egg donor, so you fully understand the process before donating.
Donor screening – You will need to undergo some blood tests for donor screening to ensure that you don’t have any medical conditions or serious illnesses that can be transmitted to the baby or birth parent.
Treatment – If you're suitable to be a donor, you'll be able to start your treatment to donate your eggs. One of our nurses will discuss your treatment plan with you, which will include information about your medication and how to use it.
Donation cycle – On the first day of your next period, you will need to contact the clinic to schedule monitoring scans. You will also begin a course of stimulation hormones to help mature your eggs.
Donating your eggs – On the day of your egg collection, you will need to fast for a few hours before the procedure takes place.
The treatment will be performed under mild sedation and you’ll be able to return home on the same day. You will need to be accompanied by a friend or family member to ensure you get home safely.
Rest assured, our medical team will discuss your treatment plan in detail during your consultation and provide you with the guidance you need.
In the UK, it is not possible to donate eggs anonymously. If you are thinking about becoming an egg donor, it is essential to reflect on what this decision may mean for you. This is where our counselling sessions will help and allow you to discuss this in detail.
It is important to know that there are protections for your identity in place. At the time of donation, your identity remains private, and the person receiving your eggs will not have access to your personal information. However, they will receive some details about you including, your height, eye colour and occupation.
Any children resulting from your donation can request non-identifying information about you from the HFEA when they turn 16. This includes details such as your height, eye colour, and occupation. When they turn 18, they can request further information about your identity, including your name, date of birth, and last known address.
We understand how rewarding it can be to help a family create the life they have always wanted.
It is essential to know that, in the UK, it is illegal to pay egg donors for their donation. However, in accordance with HFEA guidelines, egg donors can claim up to £985 to cover expenses, such as travel, accommodation and childcare during their donation journey. Additionally, your fertility assessment will be provided free of charge and you will have access to ongoing support via our counselling sessions and dedicated patient support team.
Try customising your search or removing filters
Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.