Egg Donation Agencies: Ensuring Ethical and Safe Practices in South Africa
Egg donation agencies, also known as egg donor agencies, have become increasingly important in treating infertility in South Africa. This is due to the growing demand for egg donations, as approximately one in six couples experience fertility challenges, often related to poor egg quality in women over the age of 35. Egg donation agencies recruit egg donors and match them with recipients, providing an essential service in our society.
However, there is a risk of problems arising if egg donation agencies are ungoverned. Thus, regulations exist to govern egg donation agencies to prevent unethical practices and to protect the interests of both egg donors and recipients. The laws governing egg donation in South Africa are detailed in the National Health Act of 2004, and the Southern African Society of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endoscopy (SASREG) provides guidelines for egg donation agencies to operate legally and ethically.
SASREG guidelines ensure that egg donation agencies provide complete and accurate information, maintain anonymity of donors and recipients, and take care of egg donors’ physical and reproductive health. Furthermore, egg donation agencies must not facilitate the travelling of donors outside South Africa and should declare any financial or commercial relationships with egg donation agencies.
Most fertility clinics only work with egg donation agencies that follow the SASREG ethical guidelines. Choosing a SASREG-accredited egg donation agency provides reassurance that the agency operates according to these guidelines, protecting both the egg donor and the recipient.
To find a SASREG-accredited egg donation programme, you can visit www.sasreg.co.za or contact the Department of Health
