EVIDENCE OF THE NEED FOR INCREASING GENETICS EDUCATION AND SUPPORT FOR GAMETE DONOR RECIPIENTS: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR REPRODUCTIVE PROVIDERS

Abstract

Genetic screening of gamete donors and tracking of health issues in donor-conceived offspring are performed to avoid transmission of significant health issues to donor-conceived individuals. As degree of risk is subjective, donors need not be excluded from a donor program; however, reproductive risk information will continue to grow in complexity due to advances in genetic testing and understanding of inherited susceptibilities. This study details the types of health information available on gamete donors at a sperm bank and the counseling considerations for the healthcare providers of the intended parents.