In the procedure of egg donation, a woman offers her eggs for fertilization in order to aid in the conception of another woman or couple. The eggs are normally fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting using in vitro fertilization (IVF), which can be done through a fertility clinic or organization.

To make sure the eggs are safe and fit for use, egg donors are put through a screening process that involves medical, genetic, and psychological examinations. Usually, drugs are given to the donor to encourage the ovaries to produce many eggs, which are then harvested through a quick surgical procedure.

The intended father's or a donor's sperm is then used to fertilize the eggs in a lab, and the resulting embryos are subsequently implanted into the recipient's uterus.

Women who are unable to conceive with their own eggs owing to infertility or age-related difficulties may have the option of egg donation.