Is Egg Donation Painful?

One of the first things that people ask when they begin to consider egg donation is whether or not it is painful. This blog will look at all of the medical protocol and procedures that go into egg donation in order to ensure you that the process is safe and comfortable.

The Process

Once you have been matched with intended parents, the process can begin. This usually means that while the recipient mother or gestational surrogate is preparing for the egg, you will be asked to take birth control pills for a short period of time. Once instructed, you will begin Lupron injections. These injections, sometimes used in combination with other medications, are used to prepare the body for Advanced Reproductive Technologies (ART) to stimulate the development of ovarian follicles. This is commonly known as “superovulation” or “controlled ovarian stimulation” (COS). These hormonal medications are administered for 9-12 days and the dose may fluctuate based on the follicle growth. This is monitored with a variety of tests including examinations, ultrasounds, and laboratory tests. Once the optimal follicular development has been reached a medication called HCG will be administered. This will trigger ovulation which will allow for an optimum number of eggs to be retrieved in 34 to 36 hours.
Once the doctors are ready to begin the procedure you will be sedated. This means that you will feel no pain at all. To retrieve the eggs a reproductive endocrinologist will pass a needle through the top wall of the vagina and insert it into the ovary. They will then remove the eggs one by one. This process usually takes between half and hour to an hour.
You will require approximately 20 minutes after the procedure to recover, and then you are free to go home. We ask that you return for a follow up exam after their retrieval and to refrain from intercourse until your next period as the likelihood of pregnancy is increased.

Possible Side Effects of Medication

The medications used during egg donation have been used for over twenty years. As with all medications, there are some possible side effects that should be discussed prior to the procedure. The most common side effects include allergic sensitivity, pain, irritation, and swelling at the injection site. Occasionally patients have reported symptoms of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) which causes abdominal discomfort and/or pain. In severe cases, additional symptoms may require hospitalization of the patient.
These medications have not been linked to increased incidence of birth defects, congenital abnormalities, or spontaneous miscarriages. There is, however, an increased possibility of multiple births when more than one egg is transferred.
If you’re considering becoming an egg donor with Simple Surrogacy and have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact us! Our team of experts will gladly answer all your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed and educated decision!