A rejection is not a fertility diagnosis

Egg donor programmes use stricter criteria than the criteria used to decide whether someone can conceive naturally. Being unsuitable for donation does not automatically mean that you are infertile or unhealthy.

Age or ovarian reserve

Programmes usually set an age range because egg quality, response to stimulation and chromosomal competence change with age. An AMH result or ultrasound may also suggest that stimulation is unlikely to produce an appropriate response for donation.

Medical or family history

Certain inherited conditions e.g. sickle cell, albinism, cystic fibrosis, significant medical problems or an unclear family history may require further assessment. Sometimes the issue is not that a condition definitely affects a future child, but that the clinic cannot confidently quantify the risk.

Medication, smoking or recreational drug use

Some medications and lifestyle factors can affect treatment safety or eligibility. Programmes may have different policies, so always give accurate information rather than stopping prescribed medication without medical advice.

BMI and anaesthetic or treatment safety

Many clinics use BMI limits because sedation, medication dosing, ovarian access and procedure-related risk can change at very low or high BMI. The exact range varies between clinics and should be explained as a safety policy rather than a judgement about appearance.

Psychological readiness or practical concerns

Donation requires consent, reliability and the ability to manage appointments, injections and recovery. Screening may identify a need for more time, counselling or support before proceeding.

Oocyt perspective

If your application is declined, ask what category of concern led to the decision and whether it is permanent, temporary or clinic-specific. You should leave the process with clarity, not shame.