This is an important question to ask, and we include a one-page fact sheet of medical risks in the registration package for your review. You can find information about these and other known risks directly from your doctor, or from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (www.asrm.com). Here is an overview of the information we provide you:

Ovarian Hyperstimulation (OHSS) can occur and can either be mild or severe. The mild form occurs in 10 to 20 percent of cycles and results in some discomfort but almost always resolves without complications. The severe form occurs approximately 1 percent of the time. The chance of OHSS is increased in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome and in conception cycles. When severe, it can result in blood clots, kidney damage, ovarian twisting (torsion) and chest and abdominal fluid collections. In severe cases, hospitalization is required for monitoring but the condition is transient, usually lasting only a week or two. Occasionally, drawing fluid out of the chest or abdominal cavity decreases symptoms. The best prevention is to withhold hCG administration and prevent ovulation when ultrasound or hormone testing indicates a high risk for severe OHSS. The use of ultrasounds and/or serum estradiol levels will enable your physician to predict your risk.

Medical complications from the egg retrieval process are very rare. Emotionally, you may experience no side effects at all; however, the most common side effects reported include mild mood swings, breast tenderness, hot flashes and other symptoms associated with PMS.

There is no medical evidence that the process will decrease a donor's ability to become pregnant in the future.

Any woman considering egg donation is advised to speak with the clinic physician about possible side effects and his/her own specific medical practices.