The management of the University of Ibadan has raised concerns over the increasing number of female students engaged in egg donation as a source of money.
The University Health Service said in a memo dated April 15, 2025, which PUNCH Online quoted on Friday, that although egg donation has given hope to many infertile families, it should not be viewed as a side gig or a steady source of revenue.
Dr. Aderonke Ajayi, the Director of the University Health Service, signed the internal memo.
The recruitment and engagement of female students as egg donors for IVF, frequently through people, agents, or agencies, is an increasing tendency in the university community, which Ajayi bemoaned.”It has come to our attention that there is a growing trend within the university community involving the participation and/or recruitment of female students as egg donors for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) by individuals, agents, or agencies,” she explained, adding that the process of egg donation involves the use of hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries, which carries several short-term health risks, including mood swings, bloating, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, abdominal pain, breast tenderness, and psychological distress.
“While egg donation has brought hope to many families struggling with infertility, it is important to note that it should not be considered a permanent source of income or an alternative ‘side hustle’.
“Egg donation involves the use of hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries. This process carries several short-term risks, including abdominal pain, breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), infection and bleeding, ovarian torsion, potential injury to the bladder, nearby blood vessels, and bowel and psychological distress,” the director stated.
The expert warned that some egg donors have reported long-term effects, including the possibility of losing fertility, stressing that current research is still inconclusive about who is medically safe to donate eggs and how many times a person can safely undergo the procedure.
In terms of safety, she advised that egg donation should not be done more than three times a year, urging students to always choose reputable clinics that follow proper medical guidelines and prioritise donor safety.
“It is important that our students understand the health implications and long-term consequences of egg donation.
“We advise everyone to act with caution and prioritise their health over financial incentives,” the memo stated.
The university called on members of the community to share the message and protect young women from being exploited or misinformed about the risks involved in egg donation.
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