Donating your eggs to help an individual or couple have a child is one of the most generous gifts you can give. But the decision to donate is life-changing and can come with its challenges along the way.
Getting the right support is fundamental to your donation journey, ensuring you are mentally, emotionally and physically ready and we're here to help in whatever way we can.
For many of our egg donors, knowing what to expect from the donation process and how you may feel along the way offers peace of mind.
Throughout your donation it is very normal to feel:
More intense emotions with ups and downs that can feel similar to those felt during menstruation
Under pressure because of the physical demands of egg donation
Anxious about whether the egg collection will work
Stressed about attending multiple appointments throughout the process (usually 7-9 over a few weeks)
Tired and bloated towards the end of the donation process
However, many egg donors find that donating their eggs was easier than they expected and some go on to become repeat donors.
The challenges at the time often give way to positive feelings, especially when it’s a success.
It's important to know that you are not alone throughout this journey. If you're struggling at any point, please reach out. The best person to contact is usually your Donor Co-Ordinator.
Start your egg donation journey
Help someone's dreams of parenthood become a reality. We pride ourselves on making the donation process as straightforward and discreet as it can be. Simply fill in your details and find out if you're able to donate with us.
Counselling is a core part of how we care for our egg donors. Before you donate, you'll meet with a fertility counsellor to discuss the impact your donation could have on you and your family. This includes:
How you feel about it now and what could happen in the future
Whether you’ll tell your partners or children, and the potential impact of this
How you’ll feel if any donor-conceived children contact you in the future
If you have a partner, they must attend the session too.
To get the most out of your session, it may be helpful to think about the questions you may want to ask.
How likely is it that my donation will lead to a birth?
How can I talk to my partner, family or children about being an egg donor? And what could happen if I choose not to?
Do the parents have to tell their child they came from a donor egg?
If any children decide to contact me in future, how can they do it?
How could this affect me or my family in the future?
If you're looking for impartial advice or support, we recommend the following organisations:
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
The HFEA is the UK's independent regulator of fertility treatment and research using human embryos. They provide useful information and advice for anyone considering a donation
Donor Conception Network
The Donor Conception Network is the UK's first and largest charity dedicated to supporting donor conception families and prospective families. They also offer support, videos and resources for those considering becoming a donor.