Egg donation is a medically complex process that allows individuals and couples to build families. The process involves a rigorous screening protocol designed to ensure the health and safety of the donor and maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome for the recipient. Clinics establish specific eligibility standards focusing on physical health, reproductive capacity, and medical history.
The Role of Height in BMI Screening
Height is not a standalone requirement for egg donation. Instead, height is used with weight to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI). Fertility clinics typically require a donor’s BMI to fall within a specific range, usually between 18 and 29.9.
This requirement exists primarily for the donor’s safety and the efficacy of the treatment cycle. A high BMI increases the risk of complications during egg retrieval, particularly concerning sedation or anesthesia. Excess adipose tissue can also alter hormone levels, negatively affecting the quality and quantity of eggs produced during the stimulation phase. Donors who are significantly underweight are also screened closely, as this may increase the risk of developing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
Essential Biological and Age Criteria
Age is one of the most significant factors in the egg donation process because the quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs decline as she gets older. Most programs set a strict age range for donors, commonly requiring them to be between 21 and 30 years old. The narrower range is preferred because it represents the period of peak ovarian function, maximizing the success rate for the intended parents, as younger eggs generally result in higher pregnancy rates.
Beyond age, a potential donor must demonstrate a healthy ovarian reserve, which is the estimated remaining supply of eggs. This is assessed through blood tests measuring the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) level and a transvaginal ultrasound to determine the Antral Follicle Count (AFC). Clinics look for an AMH level of at least 1.0 or 2.0 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) to indicate a robust response to stimulation medications. A combined AFC of at least 15 across both ovaries is often sought to predict a good yield of mature eggs. Additionally, donors must have regular menstrual cycles when not using hormonal birth control, suggesting healthy, predictable ovulation.
Health History and Lifestyle Requirements
The screening process involves a detailed review of the donor’s personal and family medical history to prevent the transmission of genetic or infectious diseases. Donors must undergo comprehensive testing for infectious agents, including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and other sexually transmitted infections. Family history is collected to screen for inheritable genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or specific chromosomal disorders.
Potential donors are required to undergo a psychological evaluation with a qualified mental health professional. This assessment ensures the donor is emotionally stable and fully understands the commitment, risks, and legal implications of the process. Furthermore, donors must adhere to strict lifestyle requirements, including being a non-smoker and abstaining from recreational drug use. This ensures the donor is in optimal health for the procedure and protects the viability of the retrieved eggs.