Commonly asked questions about becoming an egg donor

Every day at Fertility Associates we see women and couples who are hoping to have a baby of their own but, after working through all the options, need the help of an amazing egg donor. Being a parent can be the best feeling in the world. Imagine being able to give that experience to a hopeful family.

Below are some of our most frequently asked questions about becoming an egg donor. If you would like more information about becoming an egg donor, please contact our Donor Co-ordinators at coordinators@fa.co.nz

Do I need to have completed my family before being a donor?

No, we are getting more inquiries from younger women before starting a family. If you have had children your fertility is proven.

Does it matter if I have a Mirena, IUCD, Jadelle implant or are on the oral contraceptive pill?

Usually not, depending on the type of contraceptive used, the doctor will discuss with you when you would need to stop and use alternative methods of contraception. This would only be required for a short time.

Will there be any cost to me?

No, any expenses involved are minimal and covered by the Donor Reimbursement provided after egg collection. Appointments and treatment are covered by the recipient couple.

How many visits to the clinic will be required?

You will be required to attend a main Fertility Associates clinic approximately 6-8 times. If you have a partner, they will also need to attend your first counselling appointment.

Can I donate more than once?

Yes. We are happy to accept previous donors back for further cycles. If this is of interest you may want to discuss the clinic egg bank for your first cycle. With this option, we freeze eggs which can then be fertilised at a later date for a recipient couple and if more eggs are available then you can potentially help more than one family.

What if a child from a donor cycle wants to contact me?

The law in New Zealand protects the rights of the child. From 18 years, they have access to your information which is kept on record at the clinic and with Births, Deaths and Marriages. This information can be accessed through Births, Deaths and Marriages or through our counsellors within the clinic. Parents can access this information any time after birth.

What are the risks involved, and could my fertility be affected.

As with any medical procedure, there are risks, however, these are few and rare. Your doctor will discuss risks with you at your first consultation. You can also refer to the IVF section in our Pathways to a Child book.

Do my eggs all go to the same couple?

This depends on the type of donor you are, if you are an FA Egg Bank Donor, your eggs may help more than one recipient. If you are donating as a One-To-One Egg Donor you will donate to one recipient family per cycle.