Glossary · Definition · v2026.3
What Is a Donor Egg in Surrogacy?
A donor egg is an egg provided by a third party when the intended mother cannot use her own eggs. The egg is fertilized through IVF and the resulting embryo may be transferred to a surrogate.
Why it matters
Donor eggs are used when the intended mother has diminished ovarian reserve, poor egg quality, or when two intended fathers are building a family. The donor's age and health directly affect embryo quality and IVF outcomes.
How it fits into the process
The egg donor undergoes ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. The eggs are fertilized with the intended father's or donor sperm. Resulting embryos are cultured, tested, frozen, and later transferred to the gestational carrier.
What people usually misunderstand
The egg donor and the gestational carrier are different people. The donor provides genetics. The carrier provides the pregnancy. In some arrangements, the same person could serve both roles, but this is rare and legally complex.
Related reference
Used in
This content defines terminology for educational orientation. It does not constitute medical advice.
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