If you’re thinking about becoming an egg donor, learning that you need to take birth control pills may come as a surprise. It’s a routine part of the process, however, that will make the retrieval procedure more effective.
Why You Need to Take Birth Control Pills
In an ordinary menstrual cycle, multiple follicles begin to grow, but only one becomes dominant and ultimately develops. The others stop progressing. For egg donation, however, we want to retrieve multiple eggs at the same time.
Taking birth control prior to an IVF cycle allows eggs to mature at the same rate so that more can be retrieved. It also provides control over the process so that retrievals can be scheduled effectively when the appropriate staff is available.
Additionally, taking birth control before an IVF cycle decreases your risk of developing cysts. When cysts develop, the fluid must be drained, and your cycle can be delayed.
Combined Birth Control Pills Will Be Used
You will need to take birth control pills that combine both estrogen and progesterone. Progesterone-only birth control pills are not as effective.
Treatment needs to continue for at least 7-14 days prior to the donor egg cycle.
Birth Control Pills Aren’t Suitable for All Fertility Patients
Several medical conditions, including high blood pressure and migraines with auras, may make birth control pills inadvisable. Some physicians also worry about prescribing birth control pills to fertility patients over the age of 40.
If you are over 40 or have pre-existing medical conditions, speak to your doctor about whether you should take birth control pills. In many cases, older patients are still able to take birth control for IVF because of the short duration. Your doctor will determine whether birth control pills are right for you.
Join Our Big Family
Becoming an egg donor is commendable. You are helping others to become parents through your gift of life. At American Egg Donor Bank (AEDB), we recognize how precious that gift is.
If you think egg donation is right for you, we invite you to join our family. We value our donors and will be with you every step of the way.
AEDB offers high compensation to our donors, along with all-inclusive services. We take pride in the exceptional care and support we provide. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
