As the world continues to navigate COVID-19 and its lasting effects, questions about the virus remain top of mind, especially for those pursuing fertility treatments and egg donation. Intended parents understandably want reassurance that every aspect of the egg donation process is safe, transparent, and aligned with their personal preferences.
We sometimes receive inquiries from intended parents about COVID-19 vaccination in egg donors, particularly whether it is possible to select a donor who is not vaccinated. While we respect these preferences, it’s important to note that most of our egg donors are vaccinated. Research has shown that COVID-19 vaccination does not negatively impact egg quality, embryo development, or fertility, and there is no risk of vaccine transmission to the eggs, embryos, gestational carrier, or intended parent.
This blog is designed to provide clarity and peace of mind through up-to-date, evidence-based insights from scientific research and trusted medical organizations. Our goal is to address your concerns with trustworthy, factual information so you can confidently move forward in your family-building journey.
What the Science Says About the COVID-19 Vaccine
Concerns about the potential impact of COVID-19 vaccines on fertility and fertility treatments circulated early during the pandemic. Fortunately, multiple well-conducted studies have thoroughly investigated this issue and provided reassuring answers and conclusions specific to egg donation.
Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Affect Egg Donation Cycles?
Research published in Reproductive BioMedicine Online in 2023 specifically studied outcomes in egg donor IVF cycles among vaccinated and unvaccinated donors. The study evaluated key factors such as ovarian stimulation response, the number of mature eggs retrieved, egg quality, fertilization rates, and early embryo development—critical indicators for the success of pregnancy via donor egg IVF.
Findings showed no significant differences between donor eggs from vaccinated donors versus those from unvaccinated donors. Recipients experienced comparable fertilization rates, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcomes, regardless of the donor’s COVID-19 vaccination status. Thanks to these findings, this study provides strong reassurance that COVID-19 vaccination in egg donors does not negatively impact the chances of a successful pregnancy for intended parents.
Can COVID-19 Vaccination Impact IVF or Fertility?
Past just egg donation, scientific research continues to provide strong reassurance that COVID-19 vaccination does not impact IVF outcomes or harm fertility. A 2024 study published in Fertility and Sterility by the ASRM evaluated pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing traditional IVF, comparing live birth rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients. The results found no negative effects of COVID-19 vaccination on fertilization rates, embryo quality, and the number of eggs received. In fact, this study showed a higher rate of live births for patients vaccinated before embryo transfer.
To further reinforce these findings, a 2022 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology followed over 2,000 couples attempting to conceive. The study concluded that COVID-19 vaccination did not reduce fertility in either men or women, while COVID-19 infection was associated with a temporary reduction in male fertility. This important distinction underscores that vaccination is not only safe, but it may also support reproductive health.
Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Be Transferred to Donor Eggs, Embryos, or Recipients?
One common question we receive is whether the COVID-19 vaccine can be transferred from a donor’s body to eggs, embryos, a gestational carrier, or the intended parents.
The science is very clear: COVID-19 vaccines, specifically mRNA vaccines like Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, do not alter DNA in any way. Instead, they work by delivering a set of instructions—messenger RNA (mRNA)—that teaches cells how to create a harmless piece of the virus’s spike protein.
The spike protein triggers the body’s immune response to protect against future infection. Importantly, the mRNA never enters the nucleus of the cell where genetic material is stored, meaning it cannot affect or change DNA. After the vaccine has done its job, the mRNA is quickly broken down and eliminated by the body. It does not remain in the body or travel to reproductive organs like the ovaries.
Because of this, there is no biological mechanism by which vaccine components could be passed on through the egg donation process. There is no risk of vaccine particles being present in a donor’s eggs or embryos or being passed to the intended parent or gestational carrier. Intended parents can be fully reassured that the vaccination status of an egg donor does not negatively impact fertility outcomes, embryo development, or the health of the future child.
What Do the Experts Say?
Guidance from leading medical authorities supports the safety of COVID-19 vaccination for individuals planning pregnancy, currently pregnant, or undergoing fertility treatment.
- The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) have strongly recommended COVID-19 vaccination for reproductive-aged individuals, particularly for those who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has similarly confirmed that COVID-19 vaccines are safe for those planning to conceive and pose no risk to fertility.
Donor Nexus closely follows the guidelines and best practices recommended by these organizations. We are committed to transparency and providing research-backed updates to support your peace of mind throughout your family-building journey. All donors, whether vaccinated or not, undergo comprehensive health screenings to make sure they are healthy, fully qualified, and able to provide the best possible chance for a successful pregnancy.
Based on extensive scientific research and guidance from leading health organizations, intended parents can feel confident that COVID-19 vaccination does not affect fertility, egg donation outcomes, or the health of future children. If you have further questions about COVID-19 vaccination and egg donation, our team is always here to provide answers and offer guidance.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Egg Donation FAQs
Q: Can the vaccine affect the donor’s egg quality?
A: No. Research shows that COVID-19 vaccination does not negatively impact a donor’s egg quality, ovarian response, or fertility outcomes. Egg donors continue to produce healthy, viable eggs after vaccination.
Q: Can I choose a donor based on vaccination status?
A: We understand that intended parents may have preferences regarding a donor's vaccination status. At Donor Nexus, we provide transparency in our screening and matching process and can share a donor’s vaccination status upon request to help you make an informed decision.
Q: Could my future child be affected by the donor’s vaccination?
A: Absolutely not. The COVID-19 vaccine does not integrate with genetic material and does not affect embryo development, pregnancy outcomes, or the health of the future child.
Q: What does the Donor Nexus screening process look like for egg donors?
A:. Each donor undergoes a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed medical screening, psychological assessment, and legal consultation to make sure they are healthy and ready for the process. Regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status, every donor must meet strict health criteria to qualify.