Ovum Donor Procedure

Egg Donation Process in IVF at Naarayani IVF

Once all medical evaluations, screening tests, and admission formalities are completed—and the donor is found to be physically and psychologically fit—the egg donation process at Naarayani IVF begins.

The egg donation procedure is broadly divided into two main stages:

1. Ovarian Stimulation

In a natural menstrual cycle, only one egg matures. During egg donation, the donor receives hormonal treatment to stimulate the ovaries so that multiple eggs (oocytes) mature in the same cycle.

  • The donor self-administers subcutaneous hormone injections for approximately 6 to 12 days.

  • These medications help several developing eggs mature instead of degenerating naturally.

  • The treatment protocol is carefully customized based on the donor’s age, health, and menstrual cycle pattern.

2. Follicular Puncture (Egg Retrieval)

Follicular puncture is a minor surgical procedure performed to retrieve the mature eggs.

  • The procedure lasts about 20–30 minutes and is done under light or general anesthesia.

  • It is performed transvaginally under ultrasound guidance.

  • Eggs are collected by gently aspirating the fluid from the follicles using a fine needle.

  • Since the procedure is vaginal, no cuts or scars are left on the body.

After a short recovery period, the donor can return home the same day.

Detailed Steps in the Egg Donation Procedure

1. Hormonal Therapy for Ovarian Stimulation

A woman is born with approximately 500,000 immature eggs. Each month, several eggs begin to develop, but typically only one matures and is released during ovulation.

  • Hormonal medications stimulate the ovaries so that multiple eggs mature simultaneously.

  • These medications include gonadotropins such as:

    • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

    • Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

  • GnRH analogues are also used to regulate hormone levels and prevent premature ovulation.

  • Treatment begins on the first day of menstruation and usually lasts 10–12 days.

  • The donor is carefully guided on how to administer injections to ensure safety and effectiveness.

2. Monitoring During Hormonal Stimulation

During stimulation, the donor visits the clinic every 2–3 days for monitoring:

Estrogen Levels

  • Estrogen levels rise as eggs mature, and blood tests help track ovarian response.

Follicle Size Monitoring

  • Ultrasound scans measure follicle growth.

  • When follicles reach 16–18 mm, the eggs are considered mature and ready for retrieval.

These evaluations help specialists determine the ideal time for egg retrieval, which is scheduled before natural ovulation occurs.

3. Follicular Puncture (Egg Retrieval)

  • Egg retrieval is performed under anesthesia and takes 20–30 minutes.

  • Follicular fluid containing the eggs is aspirated using ultrasound guidance.

  • The donor rests briefly in the recovery room and is discharged the same day.

  • Mild discomfort or bloating may occur, but pain is minimal.

  • Normal activities can be resumed shortly, though strenuous activity is avoided for a few days.

  • Menstruation usually resumes within two weeks after the procedure.

What Happens to the Donated Eggs?

The donated eggs are used to help women who are unable to conceive using their own eggs.

  • Recipients are matched with donors based on physical traits and immunological compatibility.

  • For fresh egg donation, the donor’s and recipient’s cycles are synchronized.

  • For vitrified (frozen) eggs, synchronization is not required, and eggs may be stored in an egg bank for future use.

Risks Associated with Egg Donation

Egg donation at Naarayani IVF is considered safe, but donors are fully informed about potential risks:

  • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS):
    A rare condition caused by an exaggerated response to hormones, which may result in bloating, nausea, dizziness, headache, or fever.

  • Procedure-related risks:
    Rare complications such as infection or bleeding may occur after follicular puncture.

  • Anesthesia-related effects:
    Mild side effects from anesthesia are possible but uncommon.

Impact on Donor’s Fertility

Egg donation does not affect future fertility. The donated eggs come from a group of eggs that would naturally degenerate during a normal menstrual cycle, so the donor’s ovarian reserve remains unaffected.

Conclusion

The egg donation process at Naarayani IVF is a carefully monitored, safe, and ethically guided procedure that plays a vital role in helping many women achieve motherhood while ensuring donor health and well-being.