Egg Donation Myths and Facts

Egg donation is a wonderful way of giving hope to couples who may not be able to conceive on their own. Before contemplating to become an egg donor, it is extremely helpful to learn the myths and facts of egg donation.

Myth: A Potential Donor Is Never Given Birth Control Pills

Fact: A potential donor is normally given birth control pills to synchronize the menstrual cycle with the cycle of the recipient. Once the synchronized cycle is established, then fertility medications are introduced to the donor.

Myth: Finding a Donor Yourself Is the Best Way for Egg Donation

Fact: Although finding a donor yourself could be faster, it is highly recommended to use fertility clinics or egg donor agencies. It is important that donors be tested for genetic and infectious diseases. In addition, many fertility clinics and egg donor agencies have strict guidelines for screening, making the success rate higher.

Myth: Vigorous Exercises Are Encouraged to Stimulate the Ovaries

Fact: Egg donors are discouraged from any vigorous exercises once hormone medications are introduced to avoid risks and complications.

Myth: Vaginal Lubrication Is Increased with the Egg Donation Process

Fact: Temporary menopause symptoms such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes can occur.

Myth: Bruising Always Occurs around the Injection Sites

Fact: Bruising may be minimized when the injection sites are rotated.

Myth: Breasts Will Not Increase in Size with this Procedure

Fact: Breasts may become tender and enlarged.

Myth: Nausea and Vomiting Will Not Be Present

Fact: Nausea and vomiting are side effects that may occur with egg donation, as the fertility medications that are introduced for the procedure may cause these symptoms.

Myth: The Process Does Not Cause Weight Gain

Fact: Weight gain is often experienced during the egg donation process, but is normally a temporary side effect. Many pounds may be gained until the next menstrual period. This is usually because of the bloating and fluid retention.

Myth: There Are No Risks for Becoming Pregnant

Fact: With the egg donation process, fertility drugs are used to increase the production of eggs in the ovaries. With increased ovulation, an accidental pregnancy could occur.

Myth: There Are No Psychological Stresses

Fact: Stress can be incurred from the screening process and the procedure itself. Emotional feelings are triggered with egg donation, and depression, anxiety and panic can occur.

Myth: There Is No Risk of Organ Damage or Death

Fact: Although it is a rare occurrence, there is the possibility of fluid collecting in the abdomen and chest. This could cause blood clots, kidney damage, liver failure, arterial occlusion (obstruction of a passage) and the loss of a limb, shock, stroke and death. Organs that are close to the ovaries, like the uterus and the bladder, could become damaged.

Myth: Egg Donation Is a Painless Procedure

Fact: The egg donation procedure does involve some pain. Pressure and cramping is likely in the pelvic area from the enlarged ovaries and fluid retention. Also, some temporary stinging may be experienced from the injections. In addition, with the egg donation procedure, breasts may become enlarged causing increased sensitivity.

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