Egg donation can give women who normally would not be able to bring a child into the world, new hope, but who is an ideal candidate for donating eggs?
Between the Age of 21 to 31
Usually, the donor should be within the age of 21 to 31. Normally, after the age of 35 and as a woman ages, the quality of the eggs are minimized. This age factor may vary if the eggs show excellent promise for success or if previous donations were given.
No History of Infertility
The prospective donor should have no previous history of infertility. It is ideal for the candidate to have had children through giving birth, as this shows the capability of having a healthy pregnancy. Most egg donation clinics or registries prefer that the woman have had at least one healthy recent delivery.
No Previous History of Depression or Psychological Illness
Because the fertility drugs may cause depression, it is best to not have any history of depression or other psychological illness. A potential donor should disclose any information about a past or present psychological disease, as it could be inherited. Also, donors should not be in unstable relationships, as this could affect the egg donation process.
No Infectious Diseases
Illnesses or viruses can be passed on to the recipient or to the future baby; therefore, it is best for the candidate to not have any infectious diseases.
No Genetic Diseases and Good Family Medical History
A good candidate should not have any known genetic diseases, as these could be inherited. A good family medical history is preferred by most egg donation clinics, as any diseases that the family may have or had previously could be passed on to the future baby.
Able to Meet the Time Requirements
Since the process involves numerous time requirements, such as crucial timing for injections, physical exams, psychological testing, blood work and ultrasounds, it is important for a candidate to be able to meet these requirements.
No Substance Use or Smoking
There should be no substance use, such as illegal drugs, smoking or alcohol with egg donation.
Physically Fit
An ideal candidate should be physically fit and in good health to allow for the best chance of a successful egg retrieval.
Educated
Candidates with at least some college or university education are preferred.
Not More than One Sexual Partner within the Last Six Months
Many state laws prohibit a donor that has been with more than one sexual partner within the last six months. An ideal candidate would be able to meet this requirement.
No Injected Drugs within the Last Five Years
State laws disallow egg donors to have had injected drugs within the last five years, therefore, a good candidate should follow these principles.
No Involvement with Prostitution within the Last Five Years
Prostitution within the last five years is prohibited with most state laws.
Sterile Techniques Used with Tattooing, Acupuncture or Body Piercing
Sterile techniques should have been used with tattooing, acupuncture or body piercing if the procedure was done within one year.
Finished Breastfeeding
It is advisable to wait at least a few months after breastfeeding to become an egg donation donor, as lactation minimizes the effects of the fertility drugs, causing there to be less eggs.