Do lots of research. Shop around. Different clinics provide different compensation packages. Ask every question that pops into your mind even if it seems silly. Read all the information given to you. And read the contracts multiple times to make sure you understand. Make sure you know the time commitment. Appointments everyday in the early mornings. Retrieval is where the recipient is so you may have to travel. Know that someone will have to drive you too and from the retrieval since you’ll be under anesthesia.

Follow the instructions as best you can. If something is “off” tell the doc. Find a clinic that uses an anesthesiologist for the retrieval process. If they don’t, it’s up to you, but I wouldn’t work with them.

Seriously consider the ramifications of ever improving technology. While most programs are anonymous, there is no guarantee that the resulting child won’t eventually find you. It’s a possibility. Especially with all the photo recognition software out there.

Know that there is pain associated with the process. However, not a ton of pain. It’s more uncomfortableness than anything. Tenderness. And hormones. Luckily no mood swings for me. But I’ve heard of horror stories.

Shots. Lots of shots in your tummy. Maybe one in your bum depending on the recommended drugs. I itched after some. Not painful. More annoying that I had to plan to make sure I was home to take them since they have to be refrigerated.

And remember above all else that you CAN change your mind. If you feel ill tell the doc to see what can be done. But if you can’t stand it, you can end your own cycle. You won’t be compensated, but you can’t be punished. No paying back drugs. Nothing like that. You have the right to protect yourself mentally and physically at all times.

Overall, it was a great experience for me. It helped me pay for grad school and I know that somewhere a family now has a child they couldn’t before. Win win.

If you have questions, let me know. I’ll be happy to answer them.

Egg Donation Q&A