Egg Donation

Egg donation is a significant aspect of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that allows women facing infertility or genetic disorders to conceive a child. India implemented a new law governing egg donation. This article provides an overview of the new law and its implications for egg donation in India.

India has been a hub for medical tourism, including fertility treatments, due to its advanced ART facilities, skilled medical professionals, and cost-effective options. To address these issues, the Indian government introduced the new law to regulate and streamline the process of egg donation.

Key Provisions of the New Law about Egg Donation in India:

Eligibility Criteria for Egg Donors:

The law establishes specific eligibility criteria for individuals who wish to donate eggs. Donors must be between the ages of 23 and 35, free from genetic disorders, and in good physical and mental health. They are required to undergo thorough medical examinations to ensure the health and quality of the donated eggs.

Informed Consent:

The law emphasizes the importance of informed consent from both donors and recipients. Donors must provide written consent, clearly understanding the procedure, its potential risks, and the legal implications involved. Similarly, recipients must also provide informed consent, acknowledging the use of donated eggs and the potential implications for their future child.

Confidentiality and Anonymity:

The new law upholds the principle of donor anonymity, ensuring that the identities of both donors and recipients remain confidential. This provision is in place to protect the privacy and prevent any potential social or legal complications that may arise from disclosing personal information.

Financial Compensation and Expenses:

Egg donation is a procedure in which a person provides her oocyte with the objective of enabling an infertile couple or woman to have a child without any monitory help.  However, it prohibits any form of commercialization or exploitation of egg donation. The compensation should be reasonable and intended to cover the donor’s expenses, such as medical tests, travel, and accommodation.

Protection of Donor and Recipient Rights:

The law emphasizes the protection of the rights and well-being of both donors and recipients. It prohibits any form of exploitation, coercion, or discrimination based on caste, religion, or marital status. Donors and recipients have the right to confidentiality, access to medical information, and the freedom to withdraw consent at any stage of the process.

Impact and Future Considerations:

The implementation of the new law brings several benefits and considerations for egg donation in India. Firstly, it ensures the protection of donors’ rights and prevents their exploitation. The establishment of regulatory bodies enhances oversight and promotes ethical practices within the ART industry.