What to Consider When Selecting an Egg Donor
It is not unusual for patients undergoing fertility treatment to use donor eggs. Egg donation increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy for older patients or those who have had failed IVF cycles.
The fertility specialists at The Center for Fertility and Gynecology, serving Los Angeles, Tarzana, Bakersfield, CA, and surrounding areas, make a point of helping patients by guiding them through the process, answering questions, and offering tips for selecting an egg donor that is right for them.
Consider Whether You Will Work With a Known Egg Donor
The first consideration when selecting an egg donor is deciding whether the donor will be someone you know, such as a close friend or family member, or an anonymous donor from a donor bank.
Many people like the idea of working with a known egg donor because they have a lot of background knowledge about the person, which can make them feel more comfortable about the donor process.
Patients who want to work with a known donor should keep in mind that the donor candidate needs to pass a physical and emotional screening before they are cleared for the donor process. It is also important to consider how you will define the donor’s relationship with the child, and whether or not egg donation will have any effect on your personal relationship with the donor.
If individuals opt to work with an anonymous donor they should know that they will have access to pertinent information about the donor, so they will not be selecting a donor at random. Egg donors at donor banks have all been pre-screened and identified as viable donors.
Consider Medical & Mental Health
Whether working with a known or anonymous egg donor, it is important to consider their physical and mental health. Donors should provide their medical history and should also submit to genetic and psychological screening. It is essential to consider whether the donor has any genetic conditions that can be passed on to the child. You will also want to know if they are emotionally prepared for egg donation.
Consider Physical Attributes
For some people, physical attributes are important when selecting an egg donor, while for others they are not. A primary reason to consider physical attributes is to have a child that resembles their parents and family. Even when working with an anonymous egg donor, patients can review information regarding the donor’s ethnicity, hair and eye color, height, etc. Many donor banks even have pictures of egg donors as babies or young children.
Consider Personality and Intellect
There is a lot of debate regarding nature vs. nurture when it comes to a child’s personality, interests, and intellect. Still, many people like to know a little about personal interests and achievements when selecting an egg donor. If patients are working with a known donor they probably already have this information. Donor banks typically provide a brief biography of their donors so that patients learn about the donor’s interests and their level of education.
Get In Touch
The egg donor selection process is highly personal, but the doctors at The Center for Fertility and Gynecology are happy to answer any questions that patients may have about finding a donor that is right for them. To learn more, send us a message online, or call (818) 881-9800 to schedule a consultation.