Expert: Nita - 5/17/2005

Question
Hello, my name is Jessica.  I am considering being an egg donor.  I have a few questions to ask.    

I am very afraid of becoming infertile.  To have kids is a very precious thing to me.  I am afraid I would get an infection or get Ovarian Hyper-stimulation Syndrome or any possible damage done to my reproductive system.  I am also afraid that I will go through half the process and not able to donate and not get any money.  

I feel that it is a wonderful thing to donate eggs and I really could use the money.  I am a very healthy person. My BMI is 20.2.  I do not smoke or do drugs.  I am a ballerina, I exercise regularly.  My grandmother was a ballerina and she still teaches ballet to this day.  So genetically I'm that body type.  I am smart I go to college for nursing.  I am very fair in complexion if that even makes a differance.  But I don't know what a normal price is either for donoting my eggs.  Any information or insight you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Jessica,

Your concern regarding your future reproduction is a valid one.  There is RISK involved in that area with egg donation - it is LOW risk but it is a risk nonetheless.

Compensation for egg donation is a very personal choice.  Proven donors (who have already donated) typically get more than first time donors.  The factors that you mentioned are good ones for egg donation.  Most first time egg donors are compensated between 3,500 and 5,000.

I applaud your hesitation in jumping in without considering the risks.  Not many people will put those risks in front of you and make them thoroughly apparent.  If you decide to proceed, be sure to continue your efforts to make yourself completely aware of what you are doing to your body.  Egg donation is a very serious thing, but also extremely rewarding for the right person!

Good luck ....

Nita