Children born from the use of egg or sperm donors tend to have similar well-being outcomes as those who were not conceived with donor assistance. However, they are more prone to experiencing identity struggles and trust issues. The lack of transparency and anonymity surrounding their genetic background can significantly impact their well-being, according to experts. They caution that the assisted reproductive industry has not adequately focused on the needs of children and adults born from donor gametes, emphasizing the necessity for more information about the experiences of adults conceived in this manner.A new study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology by researchers at King’s College London provides the first comprehensive review of psychological experiences of donor-conceived individuals from childhood to adulthood. This review, which is the largest body of evidence for this group, sheds light on the long-term outcomes for more than 70,000 donor-conceived people born in the UK since 1991, as well as an unknown number before that date. The study analyzed 50 studies involving 4,666 donor-conceived children.The research involved children and adults from mostly English-speaking countries with high incomes. It found that in most cases, people conceived through donors had similar or better outcomes, including higher levels of overall well-being, self-esteem, and warmth in relationships.
The study also revealed that children did better when they were informed about their donor conception at an early age. In the UK, donor anonymity has been prohibited for those conceived after 2005, but children have to wait until they are 18 years old to access information.
However, families are not legally required to disclose the truth about their genetic background to their children. The growing popularity of at-home DNA tests, New research shows that genetic testing can uncover family secrets and have a big impact on people’s lives. Adults who were conceived before 2005 often don’t have the legal right to know about their genetic background. This has left them out of important research and overlooked by the fertility industry.
Dr. Charlotte Talbot, the lead author of the study and a graduate of King’s College London, says that this research is the largest of its kind and provides valuable insights into the wellbeing of donor-conceived children and adults. The findings show that in most cases, the outcomes for this group are the same or even better than for those who were not donor-conceived. However, the overall picture is complex.Qualitative research has found that there are common themes of mistrust and worries about genetic background among donor-conceived individuals. Professor Susan Bewley from King’s College London, the lead author of the study, noted that donor-conceived children are always wanted and planned for, as their parents often face fertility issues. This may contribute to stronger family relationships and overall well-being for these children. However, she also emphasized that discussions about innovation in assisted reproduction typically focus on the desires of potential parents rather than the well-being of the individuals being created. There is a need for greater consideration of the needs of donor-conceived offspring.Laura Bridgens, the Founder of Donor Conceived UK (DCUK), emphasized the long-term impact of using a gamete donor for conception. She stated that this process has significant social implications that need to be carefully considered. Bridgens welcomed a systematic review that highlights the importance of addressing the long-term needs and outcomes of donor-conceived individuals as they transition into adulthood. She called for the government and the fertility industry to listen to the voices of adult donor-conceived people and take responsibility for creating a future where the charity sector does not have to intervene to rectify past mistakes.