FAQ & Resources

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Egg Donor FAQs

Q: How long does the process take from pre-testing to having an egg retrieval?

A: The process typically takes anywhere from 2-3 months, however you will only be on injections
for the 10-14 day cycle.

Q: How many appointments should I expect for the entire cycle?

A: A common cycle consists of 7-10 appointments. The majority of these are monitoring appointments once you have started injections.

Q: If I have to travel, how many trips will I have to take?

A: Typically, you will have 2 trips in a donation cycle. The first is the medical screening trip (less than 24 hours) and the second is for your egg retrieval. The retrieval trip typically lasts 5-6 days, depending on your cycle calendar, and we will cover the cost of bringing a companion of your choice on the trip.

What are the requirements to become an egg donor?

To qualify as an egg donor, you must typically be between 21-32 years old, in good physical and mental health, have a healthy BMI, be a non-smoker, and have no significant genetic or hereditary conditions. A strong academic or professional background and a commitment to the process are also important. Our team will guide you through a thorough screening process to ensure you meet all requirements. You may also read more about our donor requirements here.

How does the egg donation process work from start to finish?

The process begins with an application and initial screening, including medical, genetic, and psychological evaluations. Once approved, you’ll be matched with intended parents. The medical process involves taking fertility medications to stimulate egg production, followed by a short, outpatient egg retrieval procedure. After retrieval, your part in the process is complete, and you can resume normal activities. You can read more about the egg donation process here or on our donor page.

Is the egg donation process painful or risky?

Most donors tolerate the process well, experiencing only mild side effects such as bloating or mood changes due to hormone medications. The egg retrieval itself is a quick, minimally invasive procedure performed under light sedation, so there’s little to no pain. While complications are rare, TLC ensures you receive comprehensive medical care throughout.

How much compensation do donors receive, and what factors influence it?

Compensation varies based on factors such as location, previous donation experience, and unique qualities that intended parents may seek. Typically, compensation for first-time donors starts at $15k and grows as you continue to complete cycles and of course varies based on what you request. Compensation covers your time, commitment, and any travel expenses incurred. Read more about compensation considerations here.

Will donating eggs affect my own fertility in the future?

No, donating eggs does not impact your future fertility. Each month, a woman naturally loses multiple eggs, and fertility medications help mature more of them for retrieval. Your body continues its natural cycle after donation, and research has shown no long-term negative effects on fertility. Read more about egg donation influences fertility here or how egg donation helps you understand your fertility in this article.

How does TLC match donors with intended parents?

Our team carefully considers intended parents’ preferences, including physical traits, educational background, personal interests, and medical history, to create the best possible match. We work closely with both parties to ensure alignment before proceeding. Learn more about considerations of intended parents in selecting their ideal donor candidate.

Will I remain anonymous, or can I have contact with the intended parents or child?

TLC offers both anonymous and known donation options, depending on the preferences of both donors and intended parents. Some arrangements allow for future contact through agreed-upon terms, while others remain completely anonymous.

How many times can I donate eggs?

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) recommends a limit of six donation cycles. This guideline ensures the well-being of donors while allowing them to help multiple families.

What kind of support does TLC provide throughout the process?

We provide dedicated support at every step, including medical guidance, legal assistance, emotional counseling, and financial coordination. Our team ensures that you feel informed, safe, and supported throughout your donation journey.

How long does the donation process typically take?

From application to egg retrieval, the process generally takes 3-6 months, depending on screening timelines, cycle synchronization, and match availability.You can read more details about the egg donation process on our donor page.

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Intended Parent FAQs

How do you screen and select egg donors?

TLC conducts a rigorous screening process that includes an initial application, education verification, and donor interview. From there your clinic will complete the required medical exams, genetic testing, psychological evaluations, to ensure donors are healthy, responsible, and fully committed. We only accept donors who meet the highest standards. You can read more about the process of vetting our egg donors here and on our donor page.

What criteria can I use when choosing a donor?

You can consider factors such as physical traits, ethnicity, educational background, personality, medical history, and personal interests. Our team will guide you through the selection process to find the best match for your family. Learn more about things you might consider as selecting your ideal egg donor candidate.

How does the donor matching process work?

We begin by understanding your preferences and presenting you with profiles of donors who meet your criteria. Once a match is made, the donor undergoes final medical clearance before starting the cycle.

What are the costs associated with using an egg donor?

The total cost varies based on factors such as donor compensation, medical procedures, legal fees, and agency services. TLC provides a clear breakdown of expected costs to help you plan accordingly. Read more about compensation and donor matching here.

Can I work with a known donor, or do I have to choose an anonymous one?

Both options are available. If you have a friend or relative who wishes to donate, we can facilitate the process. Otherwise, you may choose between anonymous or semi-known arrangements, depending on your comfort level.

What legal considerations should I be aware of when using an egg donor?

Egg donation requires a legal contract outlining parental rights, responsibilities, and future contact agreements (if applicable). TLC connects you with experienced reproductive attorneys to ensure all legal aspects are properly addressed. Read more about the process, including legal contracts, in this article.

What kind of support does TLC offer to intended parents during this process?

We provide personalized support, including guidance on selecting a donor, navigating legal and financial aspects, coordinating medical procedures, and offering emotional support throughout your journey. Here are some things we think are important considerations in finding an agency that is a good fit for you.

How long does it take to find the right donor match?

The timeline varies, but most intended parents find a suitable match within a few weeks to a few months, depending on specific preferences and donor availability. 

What happens if a cycle is unsuccessful?

If an egg donation cycle does not result in a pregnancy, our team will discuss next steps, including using frozen eggs or embryos, selecting a new donor, or adjusting treatment protocols with your fertility specialist.

Do donors undergo medical and genetic screening?

Yes, all donors go through thorough medical and genetic screening to ensure they are healthy and do not carry inheritable conditions. This helps provide the best possible outcome for intended parents. You can read more about the process of vetting our egg donors here and on our donor page.

INFERTILITY RESOURCES

Why Choose TLC?

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