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Oocyte donors' physical outcomes and psychosocial experiences: a mixed-methods study
Kirby Adlam1, Mary Dawn Koenig1, Crystal L Patil2
1Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
Fertility and Sterility
|January 14, 2025
Summary
Most oocyte donors report positive experiences, but many face physical pain, menstrual changes, and emotional distress like anxiety and depression. Improved clinic communication and long-term health information are crucial for donors.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Oocyte donation is a significant reproductive technology.
- Understanding donor experiences is vital for ethical practice and donor well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physical and psychosocial outcomes of oocyte donors.
- To analyze these outcomes across different age groups.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional mixed-methods survey was conducted.
- 363 oocyte donors (ages 22-71) participated.
- Data collected on physical outcomes and psychological experiences post-donation.
Main Results:
- 89.5% reported positive overall donation experiences.
- 21% reported physical changes (e.g., menstrual cycles), 41.4% procedural pain, and 10.5% ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
- Anxiety (25.8%) and depression (23.2%) were common, with 11.5% screening for alcohol/drug misuse.
Conclusions:
- Oocyte donation is generally positive but associated with physical and emotional challenges.
- Screening for mental health and substance misuse is recommended.
- Donors desire better clinic communication and long-term health outcome information.
