Consultation on sperm donation is launched

As part of a comprehensive review by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), a public consultation on sperm, egg and embryo donation has been launched today.

The views of members of the public and interested professionals and organisations are sought on topics such as the limits on the number of children per donor, how donor’s characteristics should be matched with patients, how much donors should be compensated, whether egg donors should be compensated at the same level as sperm donors, and how strict regulation should be on allowing sperm, eggs and embryos to be imported into the UK.

The HFEA review, which also includes a survey of UK clinics and a review of the current clinical and scientific evidence, was announced earlier this year following changes in the law governing donor-assisted conception.

These changes mean that as of April 2005 the identity of donors may be disclosed to their genetic children when they reach the age of 18. The results of the review will be announced before April 2005.

Over 37,000 children have been born in the UK as a result of people donating sperm, eggs and embryos, but research shows that clinics are struggling to find suitable, willing donors for their patients.

Announcing the public consultation, Suzi Leather, HFEA Chair said: “Donor-assisted conception has helped many people achieve their dream of having a child.

"The changes in the law present new challenges and pose new questions and it is extremely important that people make their views known, especially those already born from donor conception.”

The consultation, 'The Regulation of Donor-Assisted Conception', can be accessed via the HFEA website at www.hfea.gov.uk is open to any UK organisation or member of the public and runs from November 11 until February 4 2005.

(gmcg)