A recent review highlighted the overlooked challenges faced by donor-conceived individuals, especially adults, emphasizing the need for further research in this area.
The history of
artificial insemination traces back to animal experiments that evolved into successful human pregnancies using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) today.
While existing research has focused on parents or donor-conceived children, a recent UK review delved into the psychological experiences of donor-conceived adults.
This review encompassed 50 studies with 4,666 donor-conceived participants, shedding light on the psychological well-being of individuals conceived through donor gametes.
The findings varied, with some studies indicating positive outcomes while others highlighted mental health challenges and identity struggles among donor-conceived individuals.
Notably, many studies concentrated on children under 18, leaving a gap in understanding the long-term experiences of donor-conceived adults.
The voices of donor-conceived adults have often been neglected in ethical and legal discussions surrounding donor conception, despite their crucial perspectives. Organisations like We Are Donor Conceived provide support networks for these individuals.
As donor-conceived individuals seek greater transparency and support, issues like access to donor-related medical histories and identity become paramount. Legislation concerning assisted reproductive technologies is gradually evolving to address these concerns. Washington state, for instance, now mandates access to donors’ medical histories for children conceived using Washington sperm banks.
Commercial DNA testing has exposed the potential for donor-conceived individuals to discover previously unknown half-siblings, presenting both opportunities for connection and challenges related to managing large biological families. Organizations like the Donor Sibling Registry aim to facilitate genetic connections among these individuals.
In light of these developments, the conversation around donor conception has shifted towards advocating early disclosure to children, emphasizing the importance of openness in discussing their unique origins. Encouraging acceptance and support for donor-conceived children as individuals with distinct identities is essential.
