Egg Donation Disqualifications: 5 Things to Know

Becoming an egg donor is a meaningful, often life-changing decision—not only for the families who depend on assisted reproduction, but also for the donors themselves. While the process may seem straightforward, there are very specific criteria to qualify, and equally specific reasons someone may be disqualified. This article will walk you through what it really takes to become an egg donor in the U.S., and what might stop someone from moving forward.

What Are All the Requirements to Donate Your Eggs?
First things first: being willing is not enough. Egg donation in the U.S. is a medical process, regulated by fertility clinics and ethical boards, with guidelines influenced by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Most clinics follow a fairly standard list of criteria.

Here’s what’s generally required:

1. Age: Typically between 21 and 32 years old. Some clinics extend the range slightly, but 21–32 is the golden window.
2. BMI (Body Mass Index): Must fall within a healthy range, usually between 18 and 28. Too low or too high BMI can affect hormone levels and egg quality.
3. Health History: Donors should have no major genetic or chronic health conditions. A clean bill of health from both a physical and genetic standpoint is key.
4. Lifestyle: Non-smokers, non-drug users, and generally responsible individuals are preferred. Alcohol use should be moderate, and a history of substance abuse is disqualifying.
5. Education: Many clinics look for donors with some college education or higher, though this is not a medical requirement—it’s often based on intended parent preferences.
6. Mental Health: Stable mental health with no history of major psychiatric diagnoses is a must. Psychological evaluations are standard.
7. Regular menstrual cycles: Consistent cycles suggest good hormonal function and healthy ovaries.

And yes, you’ll go through hormonal screening, infectious disease testing, genetic testing, and a psychological interview. This is a serious medical commitment, not just a donation.

What Disqualifies You From Donating Eggs?

Let’s talk dealbreakers

1. Age Outside of Range: If you’re under 21 or over 32, you’re likely out.
2. Genetic Disorders: Even a healthy person may be disqualified for carrying inheritable conditions.
3. Mental Health Diagnoses: History of major psychiatric issues (depression, bipolar, etc.) disqualifies.
4. Smoking or Drug Use: Current or past use can be an automatic no.
5. Sexually Transmitted Infections: Active or recent infections disqualify. HIV = permanent no.
6. Irregular Periods or PCOS: Unpredictable ovulation interferes with donation cycles.
7. Inconsistent Contraceptive Use: Some birth control methods make you ineligible.
8. Tattoo or Piercing Within Last 12 Months: If not done in sterile, licensed setting—disqualifier.
9. Recent Travel to High-Risk Areas: Countries with Zika or other risks pause eligibility.
10. Unreliable Communication or Transportation: No-shows and ghosting = rejection.

Is Contraception Important?

Yes, extremely

Certain types of contraception are incompatible with egg donation:
Hormonal IUDs like Mirena — usually okay.
Copper IUDs — typically acceptable.
Birth control pills — manageable (can be paused).
Depo-Provera (shot): disqualifying.
Implants like Nexplanon: usually disqualifying.

Clinics want a stable hormone pattern. Irregular cycles from no contraception = unpredictable hormones = risky candidate.

Are Financial Factors Considered?

Yes—but not how you think

Income doesn't matter—motivation does. Clinics screen for psychological readiness and want to rule out financial desperation as the sole reason. You’ll be compensated ($6,000–$15,000), but ethics require informed, not coerced, donors.

Insurance: Not required, but some agencies offer short-term plans or prefer insured donors.

Is It Possible to Reapply to Be an Egg Donor?

Short answer: yes

If you were rejected for temporary reasons (BMI, recent tattoo, contraception, travel, etc.), you can reapply once resolved. Permanent disqualifiers (e.g., genetic or psychiatric issues) usually can't be appealed.

Tips:
– Ask for exact reasons
– Wait the needed time
– Stay healthy and keep documentation ready

Helpful U.S. Health Resources

FDA
CDC
NIH

Conclusion

Egg donation is an incredible opportunity—but it’s not open to everyone. Clinics are strict for a reason: they want the best possible outcomes for both intended parents and donors. Understanding what qualifies and disqualifies you from being an egg donor helps you avoid surprises and take smart next steps.

If you’re seriously considering donating, be honest with yourself, do your homework, and talk to a clinic directly. And remember—disqualification doesn’t mean rejection forever. It may just mean “not right now.”

Want to change lives and get compensated doing it? It starts with checking if you qualify.