Required Screening Tests for Egg Donation

To be eligible to receive embryos derived from donor eggs, or a gestational carrier/surrogate must first complete the following screening tests.

Initial Interview

During this visit, the recipient meets with members of Egg Donor Agency's medical and nursing personnel to review all aspects of her intended testing and treatment cycle; discuss which approach is right for her; discuss the various donor/recipient matching options; and review her specific testing and treatment plan.

Physical Exam & Obstetrical/Gynecological Health

The recipient undergoes a complete physical examination including pelvic exam with Pap smear, cervical cultures, uterine evaluation (hysterosalpingogram, saline sonogram and/or hysteroscopy) and uterine mapping or “sounding”. If necessary, a mammogram, EKG, colonoscopy or a medical clearance exam may also be performed. These tests are necessary to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Bloodwork

The recipient also undergoes extensive blood testing to ensure that she can become and safely remain pregnant using donated eggs. Labwork for the female partner includes: HIV-1/HIV-2,Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, Hepatitis C Antibody, RPR, Rubella, Blood type & screen, CMV, CBC, TSH and prolactin. Bloodwork for the male partner will include HIV-1/HIV-2, Hepatitis BSurface Antigen, Hepatitis C Antibody, RPR, Rubella, Blood type & Screen, CMV and a semen analysis. Genetic testing is also offered and sometimes required.

Psychological Evaluation

All recipient couples are required to meet with our psychologist of our egg donor agency in San Francisco. During this session, our psychologist will assess the recipient couple’s psychological preparedness for the process and ensure adequate informed consent from a psychological perspective. Discussion is also focused on psychological issues that many couples who have chosen an egg donor have identified as important and helpful to address.