A: GRACE works with parents from all over the world. These parents are heterosexual, same sex, married or single. Each of them is different but they have a common dream, become parents. The intended parents will have access to your profile and decide to work with you.
A: It depends if you decide to make a known or anonymous donation. This point will be discussed with our team member at the beginning of your journey. If you decide to make a known donation, you will be able to meet the intended parents (via Skype or in person). In some cases, the egg donor keeps contact with the intended parents even after the birth. This will be a decision you and the intended parents will make.
A: It will depend on how many eggs your ovaries produce each month. During ovulation, usually only 1 egg is mature. Hormonal stimulation works to increase the number of mature eggs developing in the ovaries.
A: During the stimulation phase, a donor might experience PMS-like symptoms, some minor irritability and bloating. The procedure is done under sedation so the donor will not experience pain during the procedure. After the procedure, the donor will usually feel groggy from the sedative and may experience some spotty bleeding and / or cramping. This typically goes away after a few hours.
A: You will be fully sedated for about 20- 30 minutes during the egg retrieval. You will then need to rest for a couple hours after the retrieval.
A: Common side affect is feeling discomfort and being bloated or experience abdominal pain right after the retrieval. It should not last long and should go away in few days. Another is Ovarian Hyper-Stimulation Syndrome. It can happen if hormonal medication is given in high doses. Please note that that’s why we only work with clinics who use conservative protocol meaning they do not over stimulate you and hormones are given to you in very low doses. During the hormonal stimulation as the clinic will tell you, you should only rest and not exercise at all.
A: Egg donors are allowed to do up to 8 donations*. We will request a medical records and a recommendation form from the doctor between each cycle just to be sure they have no concern with you donating another time.
*In selected clinics.
A: During the egg donation process your schedule will have to be flexible for monitoring (ultrasounds and blood work). The day of the retrieval we recommend that you clear off your schedule as you might experience fatigue and cramping. Also, it is important to note that it is not recommended to workout during the treatment and after the retrieval.
A: No you must not have had a child to be an egg donor.
A: Yes, you will need to take time off work or school for the IVF screening, the psychological evaluation, the blood works, the ultrasound and for the egg retrieval.
A: It will not cost you anything, you will get reimburse for all expenses (travel, meal, transportation, mileage, etc.…)
A: First time donor get paid $5000. If you decide to do several cycles the compensation can go up to $10000. You will also be compensated for your lost wages if applicable.