Becoming an egg donor requires more than just willingness — it requires being in good health and living a lifestyle that supports fertility. Intended parents and fertility clinics set strict requirements to ensure that donors are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared.
For Indian egg donors in the U.S., meeting these standards is especially important because of the high demand for culturally matched donors. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of health and lifestyle requirements that every potential donor should know before applying.
General Health Requirements
- Age Range : Most clinics accept donors between 21 and 32 years old, when egg quality is optimal.
- BMI: Accepted range is 18–29. Very low or very high BMI can affect egg quality and cycle safety.
- Reproductive Health : Must have regular cycles, no untreated reproductive disorders like PCOS or endometriosis, and must not have undergone sterilization.
- Medical Background : No major hereditary disorders, no HIV/Hepatitis, drug-free, and non-smoker.
Lifestyle Requirements
- Substance Use : No smoking, vaping, or recreational drugs. Alcohol must be avoided during cycle prep and stimulation.
- Medications : Some prescriptions (like Accutane or Depo-Provera) may disqualify donors.
- Commitment : Must attend 2–3 months of appointments, injections, and monitoring reliably.
Nutrition & Fitness Guidelines
- Healthy Diet : Balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein; limit caffeine and processed foods.
- Fitness Habits : Moderate exercise is encouraged; avoid extreme dieting or excessive workouts.
Emotional & Mental Readiness
Donors must pass a psychological evaluation to ensure emotional stability and good decision-making capacity. A strong support system is highly recommended.
Case Study – Kavya’s Lifestyle Transformation
Kavya, a 28-year-old Indian woman in New York, was initially rejected for having a BMI of 31. She improved her diet, added light exercise, and within six months reached a BMI of 27. She reapplied, passed testing, and was matched successfully. Her journey shows that lifestyle improvements can make donation possible.
Why Requirements Matter
- Protect donor health during hormonal stimulation.
- Ensure high-quality eggs.
- Reduce risks for intended parents and the child.
- Increase the chances of a successful cycle.
Testimonials
“I didn’t realize how important lifestyle factors were until my coordinator explained everything. I made small changes and felt healthier overall.” – M.S., Donor, CA
“I appreciated the focus on my health. Egg donation made me more aware of how I treat my body.” – R.V., Donor, NJ
FAQ
Q: Can I be an egg donor if I’m on birth control?
Ans : Yes, but some methods may need to be paused during the cycle.
Q : Can vegetarians or vegans donate?
Ans : Yes, as long as other requirements are met.
Q : What if I don’t meet BMI requirements now?
Ans : You may reapply once BMI is within range.
Q : Do lifestyle changes affect egg quality?
Ans : Yes. Smoking, alcohol, and drug use directly affect fertility and egg health.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Meeting health and lifestyle requirements ensures safety for donors and success for parents. If you’re ready to see if you qualify:
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you improve your chances of being accepted and make your egg donation journey successful and rewarding.
Dr. Pooja Patel
Dr. Pooja Patel is a Chief Surrogacy Coordinator at Surrogacy4all. She has 10 years of experience in Anesthesiology and critical care medicine.
She received her medical degree from Seth GS Medical College and K.E.M Hospital in India. She then completed an internship. She finished her Anesthesia residency at Grant Govt Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals in India.
- Dr. Pooja Patelhttps://blog.indianeggdonors.com/author/dr-pooja/
- Dr. Pooja Patelhttps://blog.indianeggdonors.com/author/dr-pooja/
- Dr. Pooja Patelhttps://blog.indianeggdonors.com/author/dr-pooja/
- Dr. Pooja Patelhttps://blog.indianeggdonors.com/author/dr-pooja/
