Side Effects of Egg Donation: What to Expect

Key Takeaways

• Most egg donation side effects are mild and short-lived.
• You’ll be closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the process.
• Rare complications like OHSS or infection are treatable and uncommon .
• Rest, hydration, and following post-procedure instructions help for smooth recovery.

Understanding the Phases of Egg Donation

Every medical process can have side effects, and egg donation is no exception, however with professional oversight and preparation, most donors experience at most mild, temporary discomfort.

Egg donation happens in several carefully managed stages, each designed to protect your health while ensuring successful egg retrieval. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after donation.

Common Short-Term Side Effects

Before Egg Retrieval

In the weeks leading up to retrieval, you’ll take injected hormonal medications to help your ovaries develop multiple mature eggs. This stage, called “ovarian stimulation”, typically lasts three to four weeks.

It’s common to notice mild bloating, abdominal cramping, mood shifts, headaches, breast tenderness, or fatigue—symptoms similar to what many people experience around their menstrual cycle. Some donors also see minor bruising at injection sites.

These side effects usually fade after your eggs are retrieved. If any symptom feels severe or unusual, your healthcare provider will guide you through next steps.

During Egg Retrieval

The retrieval procedure itself is quick, usually about 20 to 30 minutes. It’s done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Using ultrasound guidance, your doctor retrieves the mature eggs through a very thin needle.

Afterward, you’ll rest as the sedation wears off and will need someone to drive you home.

After Egg Retrieval

It’s normal to feel tired, bloated, or mildly crampy for a day or two afterward. Some donors also notice light spotting. Over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) and a heating pad can help ease any discomfort. Rest, fluids, and gentle movement are recommended for a few days.

Rare but Serious Complications

Serious complications are very rare , but your care team will monitor you closely. 

Before Retrieval: Short-term side effects from fertility medications can include bloating, mild cramping, or mood changes. These symptoms usually fade within a few days after egg retrieval. A small number of donors may experience ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) before or after the retrieval, which is where extra fluid collects in the ovaries and abdomen and can cause pain and nausea.  OHSS usually goes away on its own, but your care team will want to closely monitor your recovery. 

Severe allergic reactions to the hormone injections can occur but are rare. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, swelling or hives. 

Another rare condition is ovarian torsion, when an ovary twists and cuts off its own blood supply. This can cause sudden, sharp abdominal pain and requires surgical treatment.

During Retrieval: As the egg retrieval procedure is a surgery, it carries similar risks to other surgical procedures, such as bleeding, infection and/or injury of nearby organs, such as the bladder or bowel.  Less than 1% of patients experience a significant complication rate from the egg retrieval procedure. 

After Retrieval: Heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain should be evaluated right away. Insurance coverage provided for egg donors typically includes treatment for any medical complications that arise.

Managing Your Recovery

Most donors recover quickly with a few days of rest. Avoid strenuous exercise and sexual intercourse until your care team confirms it’s safe to resume normal activity.

Follow all post-procedure instructions and take medications as directed. If anything feels off, such as persistent bloating, pain, or fever, contact your doctor. Follow-up visits are often scheduled to ensure you’re healing well.

Many donors find it helpful to give themselves a few days to relax and take care of their body and mind after donation. If you’d like to talk through your experience, your care team can connect you with support resources or counseling.

Thinking About Donating?

Egg donation is a generous act that can change someone’s life. While side effects are possible, they’re usually  mild and temporary—and your medical team will be there to support you every step of the way.

If you’re curious about becoming an egg donor or want to talk through what to expect, reach out to San Diego Fertility Center. Their team is here to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision.

FAQ

What are the common side effects of egg donation?

Mild bloating, cramping, fatigue, and temporary hormonal changes are normal during ovarian stimulation.

What is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)?

OHSS is a reaction where the ovaries over-respond to medication, causing bloating or discomfort. Your team will closely monitor you for this rare, treatable condition.

Clinically reviewed by Jamie Massie, MD and Alyssa Schoenemann, RN.