What You Need to Know – Egg Donation
Donating eggs is a noble act of kindness that helps millions of women around the world who struggle with infertility.
However, not every kind-hearted woman who wishes to donate eggs meets the requirements. This is because egg donations are only accepted from young, healthy women whose eggs are scientifically proven to provide the best chance of conception for the intended parents. If you are interested in donating eggs in South Africa, it is important to understand the requirements.
Age Requirements in South Africa, egg donors must be between 21 and 33 years old. While the legal age range is 18-35, fertility experts consider women aged 35 and older to be at an advanced maternal age. As a woman ages, the quality and quantity of her eggs decline, making it more difficult to conceive and carry a healthy pregnancy. Egg donors who are young, healthy, and in their prime fertile years are more likely to produce good-quality eggs and provide the intended parents with the best chance of conceiving.
Health Requirements Potential egg donors must be in good physical and mental health, with a BMI between 18 and 30. Lifestyle factors such as drug abuse disqualify women from becoming egg donors, while moderate alcohol and tobacco use are allowed. Donors also undergo a psychological assessment before donating.
Donation Limits Egg donors may donate up to six times legally, with no more than four donations within a 12-month period. Back-to-back donations are not allowed, as it is important to protect the physical and reproductive health of egg donors.
Choosing an Agency If you are interested in becoming an egg donor, it is important to select a reputable agency that is committed to your medical safety and care.
Contacting the agency is the first step towards fulfilling the dream of helping another woman have her own baby.
