Online Semen Donors — Why Not?

Abstract

Increasing numbers of single women and couples are looking to online semen donors to help create their families. While on-line platforms may appear to provide a quicker and easier pathway to parenthood, this choice carries significant medical and legal risks. As part of our advocacy work in patient centred care, the fertility counsellors in ANZICA believe it is important to identify and bring to attention any significant concerns that might have serious implications for individuals and couples trying to conceive. In doing this however, we also have a duty to seek out new ways to provide more accessible forms to treatment for those who may not come with an infertility problem. This session will introduce a new patient centred resource that highlights some of the risks and pitfalls of using an online semen donor. It also offers guidance and support for those looking to create their family using home insemination and explores some new ideas on how we might better meet the needs of these women and couples. The resource aims to empower all involved to make fully informed choices, based on thorough consideration of their needs and health, and the safety and legal rights of everyone involved. Importantly the focus will include the long-term outcomes for children born through donation.