The University of Ibadan (UI) has issued a health advisory expressing serious concern over the increasing trend of female students participating in egg donation for in vitro fertilisation (IVF), warning of potential health risks and ethical dilemmas surrounding the practice.
In an internal memo dated April 15, 2025, Dr. Aderonke B. Ajayi, Director of Health Services at UI, cautioned that while egg donation can be a lifeline for couples battling infertility, it is not a sustainable or risk-free source of income. The university noted a rise in the organised recruitment of students by individuals and agencies, prompting the need for urgent awareness and regulation.
“It should not be considered a permanent income stream or a casual side hustle,” the advisory stated, highlighting risks such as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), bleeding, infection, and potential long-term fertility complications.
The statement acknowledged the altruistic intention behind egg donation but warned that the health implications, especially when procedures are repeated or conducted without adequate medical oversight, could be significant. Some donors, according to the advisory, have reported complications, including hormonal imbalances, psychological distress, and even fertility challenges later in life.
“Current research is still inconclusive on how often egg donation can safely occur, who qualifies as a safe donor, and the ideal waiting period between donations,” Dr. Ajayi noted. The advisory urged students to seek professional medical advice and to only work with clinics that follow ethical standards and prioritise donor safety.
Fertility experts agree that egg donation plays a critical role in helping women facing premature ovarian insufficiency or other fertility issues. However, they stress that recruitment should only occur through licensed agencies with robust screening, informed consent, and medical safeguards.
Dr. John Ekeani, a prominent Abuja-based obstetrician and fertility specialist, emphasised the importance of education and ethical boundaries in the growing industry.
“It’s often recommended that donors should not exceed five donations in a lifetime,” he said. “This isn’t just to minimise health risks, but also to avoid widespread genetic duplication and overexposure to fertility drugs.”
Dr. Ekeani also debunked common myths about egg depletion, explaining that donation cycles typically collect eggs that would naturally be lost during a menstrual cycle. “Some refer to egg donation as egg salvation, not loss,” he noted.
Despite the noble intent behind supporting fertility treatments, both experts and the university agree that clearer guidelines, better education, and stronger oversight are necessary to protect the health and rights of young donors—especially students who may be unaware of the full risks involved.
