Screening Egg Donor Screening Process

egg donor screening in the uk

At Ovoria Egg Bank, we follow a strict and thorough egg donor screening process that aligns with international ART standards, including the EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE and 2006/17/EC. Our screening procedures are designed to protect the health and safety of both donors and future recipients, ensuring that only medically and genetically qualified individuals are accepted into our program.

How Are Egg Donors Screened?

Our screening process includes a wide range of laboratory and diagnostic tests to assess physical health, infectious diseases, hormone levels, and genetic risk factors.

Lab and Diagnostic Testing Includes:

  • Blood type and Rh factor

  • HIV-1 Ag p24 and antibodies (HIV-2 included)

  • Syphilis (Treponema pallidum) testing

  • PCR tests for Hepatitis B and C

  • Hepatitis B markers (HBcAg, IgM, HBsAg)

  • HTLV I/II antibody screening

  • Genital swabs for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea (PCR)

  • CMV testing (IgM, IgG, PCR)

  • Complete blood count and coagulogram

  • Hormonal panel: AMH, MIS, LH, FSH, Prolactin, Estradiol

  • PAP smear and vaginal swab

  • Breast ultrasound

  • Psychological evaluation and counseling

Advanced Genetic Screening for Egg Donors

Ovoria, in partnership with Medicover Ukraine and Medicover Genetics Institute in Cyprus, follows the latest protocols in extended genetic screening. Our goal is to reduce the risk of passing inherited disorders to future children and to protect the health of both the donor and the recipient.

All oocyte donors undergo testing for a panel of 500+ recessive genetic conditions using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). This includes:

  • 32 X-linked diseases
  • All 113 conditions recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)

Donors are disqualified if found to carry mutations for any X-linked disease or mutations in critical genes like CFTR and SMN1.

In addition, molecular karyotyping (CMA) can be performed upon request, with a detailed report of any chromosomal variations.

Genetic screening is also available for male partners of recipient couples, and full matching reports are provided to ensure compatibility and reduce risk.

Egg Donor Process Step-by-Step

Becoming an egg donor involves several carefully guided steps. Below is an overview of the full process:

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Initial Consultation

Initial Consultation

Donors begin with a medical center visit for a full evaluation, including pelvic exam, ultrasound, and AMH hormone testing. Psychological counseling is also included to discuss the donor’s responsibilities and expectations.

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Choosing Donor Status – Anonymous or Open ID

Choosing Donor Status – Anonymous or Open ID

Once medically approved, the donor chooses between anonymous or open ID status:

  • Anonymous: Identities remain confidential
  • Open ID: Donor and recipient are aware of each other’s identities
    This choice is confirmed and formalized with a signed agreement.
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Family Medical History Review

Family Medical History Review

Donor coordinators collect and assess medical history going back three generations to identify potential hereditary health risks. This step is crucial for ensuring a low likelihood of passing genetic conditions to the child.

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Comprehensive Donor Assessment

Comprehensive Donor Assessment

A full health assessment is conducted, which includes:

  • Infectious disease screening (HIV, COVID-19, Hepatitis, Chlamydia)
  • Genetic disease testing and chromosome analysis
  • Psychological and personality evaluation

All test results are reviewed by a qualified geneticist before final approval.

Committed to Safety and Excellence in Egg Donation

At Ovoria, we are committed to maintaining the highest safety and quality standards in donor selection. Our multi-stage screening ensures that only the most suitable, healthy, and genetically sound donors are approved to contribute to your fertility journey.

Whether you are an intended parent or a potential egg donor, our dedicated team is here to support and guide you every step of the way.