What to Expect When You Become
an Egg Donor with RMG
Becoming an egg donor is a generous and life-changing decision, and we’re here to guide you through every step. At Reproductive Medicine Group (RMG), we want you to feel informed, supported, and respected throughout the process. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of becoming an egg donor or you’ve already applied, this page walks you through what to expect from application to retrieval.
You don’t need to figure everything out right away. Our experienced donor team is here to answer your questions and help you decide whether egg donation is right for you.
Stages of Egg Donation
Step 1: Application & Screening
To begin, complete this brief online application. This initial application should take no more than 5 minutes of your time.
If approved, you will then complete a more detailed questionnaire including information about your personal & family medical history, your interests and hobbies, and photos. This is your opportunity to share with us and future parents what is unique and special about you.
Step 2: Screening
After your application is approved, you will be scheduled for an appointment to discuss the entire process. During this appointment, our team will aim to learn more about you and why you want to donate, as well as give you the opportunity to learn more about donation. Following this consultation, we will get you scheduled for a few appointments in the clinic for medical screening, which will include bloodwork, ultrasound, and physical exam.
Step 3: Stimulation
After you have passed the testing and are approved to become an egg donor, we will teach you how to administer the medications at home. These medications will stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs over about 10-16 days. During this time, you will come to the office for regular morning monitoring appointments to track your progression through ultrasound and blood work. When the doctor decides you are ready for the trigger, your team will call you to walk you through the final steps.
Step 4: Egg Retrieval
Once your body is ready, you will be scheduled for egg retrieval. The egg retrieval is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under IV sedation that takes roughly 20 minutes. Afterwards, you will receive your financial compensation from our team at or following your post-operative appointment.
Medications Used During Egg Donation
To control your cycle and support the growth of multiple high‑quality eggs, you’ll follow a carefully timed medication regimen. Commonly used medications include the following:
- Birth control pills, to synchronize ovulation cycles and suppress early follicles
- Gonadotropin injections, to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs
- Antagonist injection, to prevent ovulation before retrieval
- Trigger injection (hCG or GnRH agonist), to induce final egg maturation and release
Medication Timeline & Key Notes
- Birth control preparation ensures your cycle aligns with the recipient’s and stabilizes follicle development
- Self-administered injections are typically done in the evening—your care team will train and support you
- Monitoring visits (blood tests and ultrasound) occur every 2–3 days during stimulation to adjust dosing and minimize risks like OHSS.
What to Expect & Common Side Effects
While most donors tolerate the medications well, here are the common side effects and how to manage them:
- Bloating, breast tenderness, mild headaches, or mood swings: Common with hormonal shifts. (Hydration, light exercise, and supportive bras help.)
- Mild injection site reactions (redness, bruising): Your nurse will show you proper technique, and these usually resolve quickly.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Occurs in ~1–2% of cycles; closely monitored during visits to prevent more serious complications.
Your comfort and safety are our highest priority. Reach out anytime, and we’ll adjust your care as needed.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Becoming an Egg Donor
Egg donation is a meaningful commitment, and it’s important to feel confident in your decision. If you’re considering becoming a donor, here are a few questions to help you reflect:
- Why am I interested in donating my eggs? Is it to help others, support LGBTQ+ families, pay for school, or something else? Understanding your motivation matters.
- Am I open to completing medical and psychological screenings? These evaluations are required for your health and safety.
- Can I commit to the appointments and medication schedule? The egg donation process involves several visits over the course of a few weeks.
- Do I have a support system if I need one? It’s helpful to have a trusted friend or family member you can talk to throughout the process.
- Am I comfortable with the idea of someone else raising a child genetically related to me? Even though you won’t be the legal parent, this question can help clarify your emotional readiness.
Taking the time to reflect on these questions can help ensure you’re making the best choice for yourself. Our team is always here to talk through anything you’re unsure about.