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I just completed my first cycle as an egg "donor," for which I was compensated over $6,000. As an unemployed student, I initially signed up because of the money, but when I was selected I became deeply concerned about the potential repercussions of the process. Donors make enormous sacrifices, and risk their own health (even their lives, in very rare cases) by self-injecting incredible amounts of hormones into their bodies, subjecting themselves to highly invasive surgery, and surrendering their autonomy. 

In the end, it wasn't the money that kept me on track -- it was the idea of helping a couple who was depending on me to start their family. It would not have been worth it for the money alone. 

As for adoption, and other options, I suspect that IFV is the last resort for many couples...Adoption is no easy, or inexpensive process, and it not without ethical consequences (especially when displacing a child from his or her native culture or country).

posted 2 years, 11 months ago
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