The first time I heard of egg donation, I was in high school. My mom mentioned it as a way to pay for college, but when I looked into it, it became so much more than just a means to a financial end. My family has a history of being very fertile and healthy – a great combination for donating. Coming from a big family, I wanted others to be able to build one for themselves who aren’t able to. My family is so important to me.

Yes – I have donated 6 times.

The most rewarding part is receiving a letter from the intended parent(s) explaining a little bit about themselves and how much it means to them. Donating to single mothers and same-sex parents is also particularly moving for me since a family can mean so many things- and just because an egg & sperm is needed for the process, doesn’t mean children should be out of the question for these kinds of families.

The most challenging part for me is honestly just the commute to the clinic, because I live quite a distance. I have never had any severe side affects from the injections or from the surgery. Egg donation, while a tedious and careful process, is not particularly difficult or strenuous. The doctors and nurses are so supportive during the process as well. I will say the first time I ever had to inject myself, I couldn’t do it. I had my room mate do it for me, because my brain would stop my hand from sticking the needle in. But one day, my room mate wasn’t home and I HAD to do it myself because the injections need to happen at the same time every night. I discovered a nearly painless way to inject myself and have never had a problem since.

I guess I would like there to be more resources / data for egg donors becoming pregnant in the future. Other than that, I did a lot of research before applying to donate my eggs, and I felt very comfortable when it came time to donate.

If you’re scared to inject yourself, do it slowly. Watch the needle go into your skin and guide it slowly- you won’t even feel it. I also do my Menopur injection extra slowly because that one tends to bite and it will burn quite a bit if you push the medication in all at once Also- don’t be afraid to ask questions. These medications need to be precise- if I ever had a doubt in my mind or instructions weren’t clear- I always asked my nurse. (especially those trigger injections!) Also- don’t be afraid to speak up. The process is fascinating and your body will change- it’s your body and you have a right to know what’s going on!