Egg Donation in Iran: Religious and Medical Laws

Egg donation in Iran is a well-known method of assisted reproduction that has a history of over 30 years in Iran, enabling infertile couples to have children. This method is recognized as permissible in Iran, but it is only possible under specific conditions and by observing religious and legal principles. We have explained in detail what these conditions include, how accredited centers operate, and what jurisprudential and legal considerations must be taken into account; therefore, continuing to read this article can give you a clear perspective.

History of Egg Donation in Iran

Egg donation was first introduced to the field of infertility treatment in Iran in 1991 (1370 SH). Centers like the Royan Institute and Avicenna Center were among the first to adopt this treatment method by modeling global scientific practices and seeking jurisprudential consultation.

After years passed and this treatment method yielded results, many clinics and centers adopted this approach, and laboratories were equipped with the latest technology and modern science. Currently, there are many infertility treatment clinics in Iran and its various cities that you can visit to utilize egg donation.



The Religious View on Egg Donation

Most Shia Marja's (Sources of Emulation), including Ayatollah Khamenei, have deemed this treatment method permissible, provided that religious principles are observed. The Marja's believe that if no unlawful looking or physical contact occurs during the treatment process, performing this treatment method is religiously permissible.

Laws and Conditions of Egg Donation in Iran

Currently, there is no specific law for pregnancy with donated eggs in Iran. However, the regulations in infertility treatment centers are set based on the directives of the Ministry of Health and the fatwas of Islamic authorities. The most important of these conditions include:

• The egg donor's age must be between 20 and 35 years.
• The donor woman and the couple must give their full consent to perform this method.
• The donor must be physically and genetically healthy.
• The confidentiality of information must be fully preserved.
• The woman must have complete mental health.
• The woman must not have a criminal record.
• In some cities, such as Yazd, married women cannot donate their eggs.

Egg Donation from an Acquaintance or a Stranger

In Iran, receiving an egg can be done in two ways. Sometimes, the infertile couple decides to receive the egg from a family member or close friend. This ensures that the baby is genetically very close to the father and mother, and the individuals fully know the donor's behavioral and physical characteristics. In this case, confidentiality is lower, but the necessary religious and legal requirements must be observed.

The second method, which is the most common approach in infertility treatment centers, is the use of anonymous eggs from an egg bank. In this method, the donor's personal information is completely confidential, but the couples can know the physical characteristics of the egg donor to choose the person who is most physically similar to themselves.



Iran: The Hub of Egg Donation in Islamic Countries

In contrast to Iran, the use of this treatment method is forbidden in many Islamic countries. For example, Qatar and Saudi Arabia consider this method to be against Sharia and have completely prohibited its practice. In Turkey, the donation of both eggs and sperm is strictly forbidden. In the UAE, some clinics have permitted this method under specific and limited conditions and by using frozen eggs.

Therefore, Iran is considered the hub for pregnancy with donor eggs among Islamic countries, and many people from other countries travel to Iran annually to undergo this procedure. Iran is also considered one of the best in the Middle East and the world in terms of modern science, the use of modern equipment, and specialized staff.

Conclusion

Egg donation in Iran is an advanced method for treating infertility that is carried out with medical and religious considerations. This treatment method is completely legal and permissible in Iran and is performed in accredited centers. Donated eggs can be fresh or frozen, and can be obtained from an egg bank or from acquaintances.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is egg donation legal in Iran?

Yes, this treatment method is completely legal, provided that religious fatwas and Ministry of Health regulations are observed.

Is the donor's information given to the recipient?

No, the donor's information remains completely confidential, but the individual's physical characteristics are provided to the couple.