Short answer: yes, egg donation can help LGBTQ+ individuals and couples build a family. Male couples and single men can use an egg donor together with a surrogate, and EDSA donors can choose to donate to an LGBTQ+ couple.
How egg donation supports LGBTQ+ families
Egg donation gives hope to many people, including those who have gone through early menopause, have genetic conditions they do not want to pass on, or are 35 and older. It also helps LGBTQ+ individuals and couples who wish to grow their families. EDSA supports every family-building journey with care and respect.
Can a donor choose to help an LGBTQ+ couple?
Yes. Donors can specify that they would like their eggs to be donated to an LGBTQ+ couple. We also have many LGBTQ+ egg donors in our ranks who want to support their community, and we have loved walking this journey with them.
Is egg donation legal for same-sex parents in South Africa?
Egg donation is legal in South Africa and is anonymous, regulated by the National Health Act (Act 61 of 2003). Recipients receive non-identifiable donor profiles, and a donor may not have more than 6 children born from her donations.
How do intended parents choose a donor?
Contact EDSA for access to our donor database, where each profile describes the donor’s physical characteristics, medical background, education, personality and hobbies. Read our guide to choosing the ideal egg donor.
Routes to parenthood with donor eggs
- Male couples: egg donation together with a surrogate.
- Single men: egg donation together with a surrogate.
- Women who cannot use their own eggs: because of age, illness, early menopause or medical treatment such as chemotherapy.
What the process looks like
- Contact EDSA and ask for access to our donor database.
- Review non-identifiable donor profiles and choose your donor.
- We notify your fertility clinic of your choice, and the clinic guides you on tests and medication.
- Your donor goes through her cycle and egg retrieval.
- Your clinic carries out the embryo transfer, with a surrogate where relevant.
Donors who want to help
Many of our own donors are part of the LGBTQ+ community and want to support others in it. Donors can ask for their eggs to be donated to an LGBTQ+ couple. If you are thinking of donating, read the complete donor guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can a male couple use EDSA?
Yes. Male couples and single men can use egg donors together with a surrogate.
Will we meet the donor?
No. Donation in South Africa is anonymous, and recipients cannot meet or contact their donor.
Where do we go for treatment?
EDSA works with trusted fertility clinics across South Africa and can refer you to a reputable clinic in your city.
Take the next step
EDSA was founded in 2007 and is South Africa’s first egg donor agency. Intended parents can start on our future parents page or contact EDSA. If you want to donate, visit the donors page, browse the egg donor FAQs or apply now.