Undergoing Screening as an Egg Donor

Last week, Family Source Consultants shared about how to get started as an egg donor. This process mandates numerous responsibilities from its donors to ensure that high-quality candidates are matched with intended parents.

But before completing the process, there are several screenings that prospective donors must undergo to qualify. These screenings cover a variety of areas, including fertility, medical, genetic, and psychological examinations.

Fertility Screening

Arguably the most important aspect of the egg donor screening process, the fertility screening tests for whether or not the donor’s eggs are capable of conceiving a child. As part of this exam, a physician will test the prospective donor’s ovarian function and reserve.

In addition, a transvaginal ultrasound may be implemented near the beginning of menstruation (typically on the second or third day). This test provides details on whether there are any vaginal or pelvic abnormalities. However, a full physical, pelvic exam, and blood test is also necessary to ensure the fertility of the patient.

Medical Screening

The medical screening is routine for anyone who intends on becoming an egg donor. Generally, it tests for the overall physical health of the donor to ensure that they’re in competent shape for the donation process.

Also, this tests for any sort of drug use, infectious diseases, or sexually transmitted diseases that could lead to complications with the egg donation or the pregnancy to follow.

Genetic Screening

Genetic screenings are necessary for evaluating any hereditary or genetic disorders. Because this can affect the child’s overall health, this screening is just as vital to the confirmation process as any other.

But this isn’t to say that donors should be disqualified because of a genetic disorder, such as cystic fibrosis. In fact, a large aspect of whether or not these genes will be portrayed in the child is dictated by their recessive/dominant nature and their combination with the male intended parent’s genes.

Psychological Screening

Lastly, the psychological screening is carried out by a professional psychologist. With such a lengthy process, this is crucial for testing the mental reliability of the egg donor.

Aside from the clear benefits to the intended parents, this last test is also a benefit to the donor because many potential egg donors aren’t sure what to expect going into the donation process. Thus, this step is great for fully clarifying the risks and benefits.

Summary

Although the screening process is quite thorough, it’s ultimately worth it. Not only does this ensure that the surrogacy process will lead to a healthy child, it also is great for cementing a match between the egg donor and intended parents. Once all requirements are met and screenings are complete, egg donors will then proceed to the egg revival process.

To begin the egg donor application process, contact Family Source Consultants today!