Thank you for donating eggs, Mari-Liis!

Is there a more meaningful gift than helping a new life begin? By donating eggs, you can give someone the chance to start a family—and turn a long-held hope into reality. 

Mari-Liis has donated eggs at Ovumia Tallinn and describes the experience as something truly valuable: supportive, safe, and meaningful. 

Read further to learn what first inspired Mari-Liis to become a donor, how she experienced each step of the process, and what she would like to say to anyone considering donating today.

What was the moment or thought that made you consider donating your eggs for the first time?

At first, it was curiosity. My good friend told me about egg donation and all the benefits it includes.

Did you think about the decision for a long time, or was the decision easy for you?

Overall, the decision was quite easy, but it took a little time because I thought, “I can never be good enough to be a donor

Did you look for information on donation before donating? How and where? 

I went through your homepage and asked my friend—who first told me about egg donation—for more information.

Did you have any preconceptions about the process?

Not really. The only thing I was scared of was the possibility of finding out that I have a hereditary disease that I didn’t know about.

How would you describe the donation process to someone who doesn’t know anything about it? Was it easier or more challenging than you expected?

I’d say it has so many benefits—you’ll get a free health check. The nurses and doctors are very nice, and they treat you with kindness. Overall, it’s a really good thing to do because you’re helping someone who can’t have children. And of course, everything is covered, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

How did the appointments and treatments related to the donation fit into your everyday life (work, studies, family)?

It was a little challenging since I don’t live in Tallinn. I made my first two donations while living in Pärnu. The third took place when I was studying in Tartu. But it was all manageable. The only timing challenge was on the day of the final procedure in Pärnu—I was supposed to go to work that day, and I was lucky to find someone who could cover for me.

How did the egg retrieval day feel — were you nervous, and how did the clinic staff support you?

The first time I was very nervous—I didn’t know what to expect. But the doctors kept me informed and explained everything. I especially liked the anesthesiologist; she was always very kind and friendly.

How did you feel after the donation, knowing you had given someone the chance to start a family?

At first, I didn’t fully realise what I had done, but my partner was really proud of me. That was the moment I knew I had done something truly noble.

What has donating eggs taught you about yourself (e.g. your fertility)?

I’d say it tought me that I have a lot of good eggs—and that it’s best not to go climbing after the procedure, because it can be painful afterwards.

If you could send a message to someone who is currently considering becoming a donor, what would you say to them?

I’d say it’s a really nice and heartwarming thing to do for families who don’t have that opportunity. And, of course, as a donor you also get a comprehensive health check-up for free—something that would normally be very expensive.

Would you donate again?

Yes—100%!

Why did you choose Ovumia Tallinn?

I’d say your website caught my eye quite quickly, and I really like all the nurses and doctors there. Usually, I don’t feel very comfortable with doctors, but at Ovumia I’ve felt at ease, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed every visit.

Egg donors are needed continuously. Every year, hundreds of fertility treatments using donor eggs are carried out in Estonia.

A big thank you, Mari-Liis! Would you also like to help make a family’s dream come true?