As many as 9 percent of assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles in the U.S. involve donated eggs, according to Resolve: The National Infertility Association. Egg donors can earn as much as $25,000 for participating in a donation cycle. Egg donation is a boon for infertile couples, many of whom are able to become parents because of donated eggs, but there are health risks associated with egg donation that any woman considering donation should be aware of.
Cycle Interruption
In order to more effectively manage your menstrual cycle during your egg donation period, you may take a medication to suspend normal functioning of your menstrual cycle. This medication can cause symptoms similar to PMS, including headaches and mood swings, tenderness in the breasts, flu-like aches and pains and sleep problems. Some women also experience vision problems and vaginal dryness.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation
A woman's body usually produces one egg for fertilization each month, but for egg donation, women take hormones to stimulate the production of multiple eggs. Hormones are generally given via injection, and women may experience soreness, bruising or discomfort at the injection site. Common side effects of hyperstimulation include fluid retention, sore breasts and mood swings. In more serious cases, hyperstimulation risks can include abdominal pain and swelling, kidney failure, blood clotting and fluid build-up in the lungs. In some rare cases, one or both ovaries may have to be removed. In rare cases, ovarian hyperstimulation can cause death.
Egg Retrieval
During egg retrieval, a needle is inserted into your ovary to remove the eggs there. The process usually take about 30 minutes and requires a few hours of recovery time before you can leave the medical facility. As with any injection, you may experience soreness and bruising at the injection site. There is a slight risk that the needle might damage the blood vessels around your ovary or the organs near it, including the bowels and bladder. It's also possible that the needle could puncture or damage your ovary. If your internal organs are damaged, you may need surgery to repair them. It's possible for the injection site to become infected if it is not properly cared for, and injection could cause infertility.
