5 Myths About Selecting an Egg Donor

Building a family through egg donation can feel very exciting, but also overwhelming. It’s a process that’s often clouded by misconceptions and outside opinions – from assumptions about genetics to ideas of what makes the “perfect” donor.

To avoid stress and confusion, we’ve unpacked five of the most common myths about selecting an egg donor, and revealed the truths that can bring you peace of mind, empowering you to move forwards with clarity and confidence.

Myth 1: The “perfect” egg donor exists

The misconception: Many believe there is a flawless candidate who ticks every box.

Reality: Every donor has unique strengths, but “perfection” is a myth. 

It’s natural to imagine that somewhere out there is your ideal match, with glowing health, the right physical characteristics and personality, and an impressive academic record. While that may be true, chasing perfection can add stress and pressure, prolonging the process and narrowing your options unnecessarily. 

Ultimately, the goal is to find a donor whose background, values, or story feels like a natural match for your family’s journey.  At London Egg Bank, we make that easier by offering a diverse donor database, in-depth profiles, and guidance from our experienced team, so you can focus on making a meaningful choice.

Chasing perfection can add stress and pressure, prolonging the process and narrowing your options unnecessarily.

Myth 2: Donor egg anonymity is the best way to protect my family

The misconception: That anonymity creates protection and distance.

Reality: While anonymity may feel safe, in reality, openness is healthier for everyone. 

Some intended parents believe that keeping their donor anonymous is the safest idea. But donor egg anonymity no longer exists in the UK. Since 2005, the law has required all donors to agree that their identifying information can be shared with donor-conceived children once they reach the age of 18 (you can read more about this here).

This means that while intended parents receive only non-identifying details during the selection process, such as physical characteristics, education, or interests, the donor-conceived individual will have the right to learn the donor’s full name and last known contact information as an adult. 

This approach balances privacy during childhood with openness in adulthood, ensuring that donor-conceived people can access information about their genetic origins if they choose to.

It’s worth remembering, too, that true anonymity is difficult now due to advances in DNA testing and the popularity of genealogy websites. So even if you choose an “anonymous” donor, there is a possibility that your child could identify their donor in the future. 

The benefit, though, is that more families than ever are adopting a healthier approach built on openness and honesty – something that, research suggests, helps build stronger family bonds.

Some intended parents believe that keeping their donor completely anonymous is the safest way forward. But donor egg anonymity no longer exists in the UK. Since 2005, the law has required all donors to agree that their identifying information can be shared with donor-conceived children once they reach the age of 18.

The egg donor should look exactly like me

The misconception: Some parents feel they must find a “twin” to ensure resemblance.

Reality: What matters most is building a loving, supportive family environment.

Let’s face it, genetics are unpredictable. Even biological children don’t always look like their parents! 

More than anything, a child’s sense of belonging comes from love, acceptance, and familial bonds, and it’s this immersion in the family that influences them most – their expressions, mannerisms, personality, maybe even their hobbies and interests, mirroring your own. So don’t get too caught up on finding a donor who looks just like you. Nurture, as well as nature, will shape the person your child becomes.

The younger the egg donor, the better the eggs

The misconception: People often assume “the younger, the healthier”.

Reality: Donor age is important, but it’s not the sole factor. 

The optimal age range for egg donation is generally between 21 and 35 years old, as egg quality and quantity decline significantly after age 35.. 

But when it comes to egg donor selection, recipients often veer towards the lower end of the age scale, assuming these eggs will ensure the best outcomes. But older donors (within the approved range) can produce excellent outcomes. In fact, a study has shown that egg donors aged 25-29 have a higher live birth rate compared to those under 25. 

The screening process is also vitally important. At London Egg Bank, every donor undergoes a thorough medical, genetic, and psychological screening process, ensuring only those with the healthiest profiles are selected. 

I should avoid an egg donor who is a genetic carrier

The misconception: Being a carrier for a genetic condition disqualifies a donor.

Reality: Everyone carries some genetic variants – this is normal.

Intended parents often worry that if a donor is identified as a genetic carrier, they should automatically be ruled out. But the truth is that everyone carries some genetic variants, and what matters is whether her genetic profile is compatible with the recipient or sperm provider. 

At London Egg Bank, every donor undergoes comprehensive genetic screening to check for a wide panel of inherited conditions. If a donor is a carrier, this information is reviewed and matched against the intended parent’s results. As long as both parties are not carriers of the same condition, the chance of passing it on is extremely low.

And even when both parties are carriers, there are safe paths forward, such as using donor egg IVF with PGT-M (embryo genetic testing) to select unaffected embryos.

Donor egg selection is a deeply personal process, and it’s natural for myths and misconceptions to create doubts. But remember that you are not alone. If you are under the care of a supportive clinic, you will be guided through the process.

They should help you focus on facts, not fears, so that you can approach the process with reliable information and greater confidence. Remember that perfection is a myth, and what truly matters is finding an egg donor whose health, screening results, and values align with your family’s needs.