The idea of helping someone build a family through egg donation can be exciting, but it’s also natural to have questions about what your body will go through. Is the egg donation painful? Will the injections hurt? What will you feel during recovery? These are important questions to ask before taking the next step.

Growing Generations helps egg donors understand what to expect before and after retrieval so you can feel prepared at each step. Egg retrieval is a short procedure, but your body has already been through several days of ovarian stimulation before you reach it.

The most common factors that can disqualify you from donating eggs include being outside the program’s age or BMI requirements, tobacco or nicotine use, having certain medical or reproductive conditions, or being unable to provide enough information about your family health history.

Yes, you can donate eggs if your tubes are tied as long as you meet the other requirements to become an egg donor. A tubal ligation changes how an egg travels through your reproductive system but it does not stop your ovaries from producing eggs.

Your decision to become a surrogate starts with more than meeting a list of qualifications. You’ll have to consider how it will affect your life. There is no single “right” reason to become a surrogate, and readiness can look different for every woman. By learning what the surrogacy process asks of you and reflecting honestly on your goals, you can decide whether becoming a surrogate feels right for you.

Giving birth marks an important transition in your surrogacy experience. Your care doesn’t end at delivery. You still need time to recover both physically and emotionally and may need support as you return to your daily routine. Every post-birth experience looks different and your recovery will depend on your health, your personal preferences, and the post-delivery plan.