The trend of delaying parenthood has led to a surge in demand for donor eggs in the UK, but a shortage of donors—especially from minority ethnic backgrounds—is forcing many to choose between their heritage and the chance to have a child, fertility experts warn.
According to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), IVF cycles using donor eggs with donor sperm increased 50-fold from 27 in 1991 to 1,375 in 2019. Similarly, cycles using donor eggs with partner sperm rose 22-fold to 3,058 over the same period. However, the Covid-19 pandemic worsened the shortage, with new egg donor registrations falling by 23% from 2019 to 2020.
Waiting times for donor eggs vary by postcode, from a few months to around two years, but for those seeking donors from minority ethnic backgrounds, the wait can be double or longer. Jason Kasraie, an HFEA authority member and consultant embryologist, said the increased use of donor eggs is due to a combination of factors, including reduced stigma around IVF and a growing acceptance of fertility treatment.
However, the biggest factor is people starting families later in life. Kasraie noted that fertility declines with age, and women who delay trying to conceive until their late 30s or 40s often require donor eggs. The average age of first-time mothers in the UK is now 31, compared to 23.7 in 1970.
Egg donation in the UK is altruistic and illegal to pay for, though donors can receive up to £750 compensation per cycle. Kasraie highlighted the significant commitment required, including drug stimulation and a minor surgical procedure, making it challenging to find enough donors to meet demand.
