Mishaps and misfortunes: complications that occur in oocyte donation

Despite careful screening and the adherence to strict protocol, approximately 2% of initiated cycles of oocyte donation were found to be complicated by difficulties incurred by oocyte donors. The risk of these adverse events appeared to be limited to the initial trial of donation with experienced donors being more reliable. Thus, surveillance of the cycle's progress should be maximal during this time. Both donors and recipients need to be aware of the unique problems posed by oocyte donation to provide full informed consent. This includes the possibility for unplanned pregnancies when discontinuing the donors' usual method of contraception. These mishaps underscore the importance of reminding patients that cycle success cannot be guaranteed, and unexpected complications cannot be entirely avoided.