Myths & Misconceptions Surrounding Egg Donation

December 17, 2024

Egg donation can be an illusive concept – that’s why, the experts at Chosen Egg Bank are here to illuminate it! Whether you are an intended parent or a generous donor, we want to make sure that you have a solid understanding of the amazing miracle this process can be. So, to calm your worries and ease any fears, we have created a quick guide debunking the common myths and misconceptions surrounding egg donation! Keep reading to learn more…

Young Black woman talking to a young Black doctor about egg donation

Myth #1: Egg donation is painful

While taking medications to prepare for egg retrieval might cause some minor discomfort, egg donation is not painful. The egg retrieval procedure is completed under mild sedation so donors do not feel any pain. After the procedure, it is typical to experience a small amount of cramping and bloating for the few days following the procedure. Generally, donors are able to resume normal activities within 24 hours!

Myth #2: Egg donation is only for couples with fertility issues

While many people might assume that egg donation is primarily for couples who are facing fertility struggles due to the woman’s fertility, egg donation is truly for any loving intended parents dreaming of starting a family and struggling to do so. We are proud to work with a wide variety of hopeful parents from all over the world as well as both LGBTQ couples and single parents wishing to expand their families!

Ethnically ambiguous young woman smiling and being comforted by her female doctor

Myth #3: Anybody can donate their eggs

There is a common misconception that anyone can donate their eggs. However, at Chosen Egg Bank, we are proud to have a rigorous vetting process. Our donors must be: between the ages of 18-30, in excellent physical and mental health, with no drug or nicotine usage (currently or for at least the past 3 years), of proportional height and weight, and have no criminal history. In addition, our donors must be willing to provide a complete medical history, undergo psychological and medical assessments, and be willing to complete the egg donation process and all that it entails in its entirety.

Myth #4: You can only donate your eggs once

Many people might believe that donors can donate only once, or alternatively, as many times as they want. However, we abide by the widely accepted standard outlined by The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) that asserts that egg donors should undergo a maximum of six egg donations. While it is technically possible to complete more donations, this standard is important to ensure that donors’ health remains a top priority.

Happy young couple talking to an egg donation specialist

Myth #5: Age doesn’t matter

Yes, age plays a key role in fertility, which is why donors are typically below the age of 30. However, many might think the younger the donor the better. While the chances of producing more eggs is higher for younger donors who are likely to have higher fertility, the risks of undergoing the medications can also be slightly higher too. Respected egg banks like Chosen Egg Bank have appropriate age ranges for donors to ensure the highest possible safety standards, promote best outcomes, and to ensure that donors know wholeheartedly that egg donation is for them. This is why it is crucial to work with the best doctors and clinics, as we do, to know that our egg donors are carefully monitored and that their medications are at the perfect dosage for their best health and success.

Myth #6: Egg donation lowers your supply

While it might seem like egg retrieval — and taking medication to increase the number of retrievable eggs — would lower egg supply, it does not deplete egg supply in any way. It simply gives the eggs that would otherwise be discarded a chance at life! Therefore, even after they donate the maximum amount of times, egg donors can (and often do) have children of their own!

Happy asian couple touching their pregnant belly while relaxing on a couch

At Chosen Egg Bank, we’re here every step of the way to help you build the family of your dreams or give the gift of a lifetime. If you’d like to know more about whether egg donation is right for you, our passionate team of experts is here to answer any questions you might have and help you begin your journey. We hope to hear from you soon!

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