thinking of Becoming a Donor? get an expert’s opinion first

Cape Fertility director and ob-gyn Dr Nomathamsanqa Matebese provides her medical overview.

who seeks out this treatment?

It’s most often sought by women above 40, due to a decline in their egg numbers. There is a percentage of women in their 30s who seek it because of premature ovarian insufficiency.

what are the risks with donating?

The most serious is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome, in which your ovaries become swollen and painful. Others include twisting of the ovary, pelvic infection and bleeding.

what advice would you give to women who are considering donating their eggs?

Join a reputable donation agency who works with an accredited fertility clinic, ask as many questions as possible and make sure you’re mentally prepared.

what is the demographic of your recipients?

We see a significant number of foreigners, as this provides them with a lot of privacy. Most donor recipients are also Caucasian, however, there’s an increasing number of African recipients as well. Plus, the majority of the women who come to us are married or in a relationship, and a small percentage are single women.