Can You Donate Eggs If You Have an IUD?

Short answer: Yes, some people can donate eggs while using an intrauterine device (IUD). An IUD does not automatically disqualify an egg donor, but the fertility clinic needs to know which type is in place, review the donor's medical history and ovarian reserve, and decide whether stimulation and egg retrieval can proceed with the device left in place. Clinic policies differ, so do not have an IUD removed solely for donation unless the treating clinician advises it.

Why does the type of IUD matter?

In the United States, IUDs include levonorgestrel-releasing hormonal devices and a nonhormonal copper device. The CDC's 2024 intrauterine contraception guidance describes both types as long-acting and reversible, but they can affect bleeding patterns differently. That information helps the fertility team interpret the donor's history and plan monitoring.

• Copper IUD: It contains no hormones. Its presence still needs to be documented and considered during the donor's medical evaluation.
• Hormonal IUD: It releases progestin mainly within the uterus and may reduce bleeding or cause amenorrhea. That does not automatically mean ovarian activity has stopped, but it can affect how the clinic evaluates timing and symptoms.

ACOG notes that most users of levonorgestrel IUDs continue to ovulate, but this general information cannot establish whether one person is eligible to donate. The clinic makes that decision from the full medical assessment.

What screening is required before a decision?

The ASRM's current guidance on gamete and embryo donation recommends medical history review, a physical examination, infectious-disease testing, genetic evaluation, and appropriate counseling for prospective oocyte donors. ASRM also recommends pelvic ultrasound, including antral follicle count, and ovarian reserve biomarkers to help anticipate the response to stimulation.

When an IUD is present, the team may also ask about:

• The IUD type, brand, and insertion date.
• Unexpected bleeding, pelvic pain, prior infections, or concern that the device has moved.
• Current medications and any additional contraception.
• Prior fertility testing, treatment, or donation history.

Does the IUD need to be removed before donation?

Not always. Some clinics may allow a particular IUD to remain in place, while others may request removal before medication begins. The answer depends on the device, its position, the clinic's protocol, and the donor's individual medical findings. IUD removal is a clinical procedure and should be coordinated with a qualified health professional after the fertility clinic has reviewed the case.

What should a prospective donor bring to screening?

1. The IUD card or another record showing the device and insertion date.
2. A current list of medications and supplements.
3. Notes about bleeding patterns, pelvic pain, or other new symptoms.
4. Copies of earlier fertility test results, if available.

What other factors affect eligibility?

Egg donation involves ovarian stimulation medications and a medical egg-retrieval procedure. The IUD is only one part of the assessment. Age, ovarian reserve, personal and family medical history, infectious-disease screening, genetic screening, and the overall safety evaluation also matter. A prospective donor should promptly tell the clinic about new pelvic pain, fever, unusual bleeding, or a possible pregnancy.

Bottom line

Having an IUD may still be compatible with egg donation, but approval is not guaranteed. Disclose the device at the start, complete the clinic's screening, and follow the fertility team's instructions about whether it can remain in place. You can also learn more about what happens when an egg donor responds poorly to stimulation and how often someone can donate eggs. Expecting.ai can help intended parents and donors connect with appropriate professionals and understand the next steps.

This article is for general educational purposes and is not individualized medical advice. Egg-donor eligibility and decisions about an IUD must be made by a fertility clinic and a clinician who know the donor's medical history.