Can You Donate Eggs After a Hysterectomy? What Science Says

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

If you’ve had a hysterectomy but are still interested in helping others have a baby, you may wonder—can you still donate your eggs? The short answer: yes, it’s sometimes possible. This article explores how a hysterectomy affects your reproductive potential and whether egg donation remains an option.

What Is a Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus. Some types of hysterectomy may also involve the removal of the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes.

Can You Donate Eggs After a Hysterectomy?

If your **ovaries were left intact**, and you meet the general qualifications for egg donation, it may be possible to donate your eggs after a hysterectomy. Egg production occurs in the ovaries, not the uterus, so as long as your ovaries are functioning, egg retrieval is feasible.

When Egg Donation Is Not Possible

You cannot donate eggs if:

• Both ovaries were removed (bilateral oophorectomy)
• Your ovarian reserve is too low due to age or surgery
• Hormonal function is compromised post-surgery

How the Egg Donation Process Works Post-Hysterectomy

• Step 1: Hormonal stimulation using injectable medications to mature multiple eggs.
• Step 2: Monitoring via blood tests and ultrasound (no need for uterine evaluation).
• Step 3: Egg retrieval through a vaginal ultrasound-guided aspiration.

Because there’s no uterus, there’s no menstrual cycle—but the ovaries can still function independently.

Medical Criteria for Eligibility

• Age under 33
• Healthy BMI
• No major chronic illnesses
• No smoking or substance use
• Favorable genetic and family history
• Strong ovarian reserve (measured via AMH or antral follicle count)

What Tests Will Be Done?

• Hormone bloodwork (FSH, AMH, estradiol)
• Transvaginal ultrasound to check ovarian follicles
• Genetic and psychological screening

Why It’s Rare but Possible

Many women with hysterectomies do not qualify due to age or lack of ovarian function. However, younger women who had surgery due to uterine issues—not ovarian problems—can sometimes qualify. It’s important to work with a specialized fertility clinic that can evaluate your eligibility.

Alternative Options if You’re Not Eligible

• Egg freezing prior to hysterectomy
• Becoming a surrogate coach or egg donor advocate
• Donating embryos (if previously stored)

Conclusion

Donating eggs after a hysterectomy is not common, but it is scientifically possible if your ovaries remain functional. If you’re interested, Surrogacy4All can help assess your eligibility through medical testing and guide you through the next steps with care and confidentiality.