Summary

Oocyte (egg) donation in India is a key aspect of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and is regulated under the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021.

Oocyte donors play a critical role in helping individuals and couples facing infertility challenges.

SafeTree, a leading provider of donor insurance, conducted a survey to evaluate the impact of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulations) Act 2021 on the usage of oocyte donors in India.

The aim was to gather insights from IVF specialists and ART banks with respect to changes in donor availability, client confidence, and the overall process post-implementation of the new regulations.

The survey reveals a mixed impact of the new ART regulations on the usage of oocyte donors. The respondents noticed a substantial increase in donor confidence and protection. A few respondents raised some concerns regarding the availability of donors.

Most IVF specialists are optimistic about the future of donor participation, provided certain regulatory adjustments and process improvements are made. Initiatives to increase awareness in the society regarding the process of oocyte stimulation and retrieval can be explored across the country.

We would like to thank all respondents who took part in our survey by sharing valuable insights, and it is our belief that if all stakeholders in the fertility ecosystem work cohesively, there will be increased transparency and accountability, which in effect will be a boon for millions of couples facing fertility challenges in the country.

Every donor’s life is precious, and it is our responsibility to provide adequate protection to each donor.

The potential for oocyte donors in India is significant due to a combination of demographic and socio-economic factors. The following is an overview of the Oocyte donor market in India –

Growing Demand for Oocyte Donation

Infertility rates are on the rise due to

• Lifestyle changes, delayed pregnancies, and health conditions have contributed to increased infertility rates in India.
• According to estimates, around 15% – 20% of couples in India face infertility issues, fuelling demand for advanced fertility solutions like egg donation.
• The gross fertility rate in India has decreased by almost 20% in the last decade in India.
• The human sperm count has fallen by over 50% over the last 50 years, as per a study published in the Human Reproductive Update journal.

Boom in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

• India has a thriving fertility industry, with over 2,000 ART clinics.
• The rising use of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has expanded the need for donor eggs, particularly for women with poor egg quality or early ovarian failure.

Large, Diverse Population Pool for Oocyte Donors

• Young Population – India has a vast pool of women in the reproductive age group (23y-35y), which aligns with the eligibility criteria for egg donation.
• Diverse Genetic Profiles – India’s diversity in ethnic and genetic backgrounds is a unique advantage for couples seeking donors that match specific characteristics.
• Awareness and Education – Education initiatives within society to increase awareness regarding the process of oocyte stimulation and retrieval can be explored.

Awareness Gaps and Addressable Market

• Low Awareness Levels – Many women remain unaware of the opportunity to become egg donors or the medical safety measures involved.
• Addressable Market – Raising awareness among urban and semi-urban populations could unlock a substantial potential donor base.

Policy and Ethical Safeguards

• Regulated Industry – The ART Regulation Act, 2021, ensures ethical practices and protects the health and rights of donors, making the process safer and more transparent.
• Insurance Opportunities – Oocyte donor insurance has enhanced confidence among donors, assuring them of financial and medical coverage.

Challenges to Overcome

• Social Stigma – Cultural and societal perceptions about fertility and reproduction can deter some women from participating.
• Medical Concerns – Ensuring proper care and minimising risks like Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is critical to encouraging donor participation.
• Accessibility – Clinics and organisations need to make egg donation accessible in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where awareness and penetration remain low.

Market Potential

It is estimated that India has 300-500 lakh couples with fertility challenges and 2-3 lakh IVF cycles conducted annually. Given the rising infertility rates and growing ART adoption, the market for oocyte donors is expected to grow substantially.

The following are key findings of the survey conducted to understand the impact of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulations) Act 2021 on the usage of Oocyte donors in India –

Client Confidence

Increased Confidence – A significant majority (57%) of respondents indicated that client confidence in the system has increased post-implementation of the new ART regulations.

Donor Availability

Decreased Availability – Many respondents noted that donor availability has gone down since the implementation of new regulations.

Donor Protection

Better Protection – A common piece of positive feedback was that donors now have better protection due to the new regulations.

Usage of Oocyte Donors

Mixed Experiences – 

• 37% of respondents reported a decrease in the usage of oocyte donors.
• The remaining 63% reported an increase or no significant change in usage of oocyte donors.

Future Donor Participation

• Will Increase – The majority (66%) of respondents believe that oocyte donor participation will increase in the coming times.
• Will Decrease – A smaller percentage (29%) of respondents believe oocyte donor participation will decrease.

Insurance Coverage

• Health and Life Insurance – Over 60% of respondents ensure both health and life insurance for their oocyte donors.
• Health Insurance Only – A few specialists provide only health insurance.

Sourcing of Oocyte Donors

• ART Banks – The majority source their oocyte donors from ART banks.
• Direct Sourcing – Some specialists source donors directly.

Survey Recommendations

Q – What percentage of couples consider an Oocyte Donor

Infertility affects millions of couples globally, with 28 million couples in India suffering from the issue. Since not being able to conceive can be one of the most difficult events in a couple’s life, research shows that couples dealing with reproductive issues experience significant anguish and worry.