IVF doctors have updated guidelines for gamete donation in the light of a growing recognition that offspring have a right to their genetic heritage.

After five years the American Society for Reproductive Medicine has updated its guidelines for gamete donation in the light of the growing recognition that offspring may have a right to know their genetic parents.

The thread running through all sections of the lengthy “opinion” is uncertainty. Until now almost all gamete donation was anonymous. However, offspring who want to find their parents and donors who want to become involved in the lives of their children are becoming more and more common.

In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, children can access donor information once they turn 18. This is not the case in the US, but laws could change. “Programs should make it clear to donors that they cannot give guarantees regarding immunity from future contact by offspring,” the ASRM says. Perhaps as a consequence, it offers no firm recommendations which are binding on its members.

“Donors and programs must recognize that they have a unique and ongoing moral relationship with each other, as well as with the recipients and their children, and this obligation does not end with the procurement of gametes. Evolving medical technology, laws, and social standards will require reevaluation of these relationships throughout the lifetime of the parties involved.”

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