Assisted reproduction: a study reveals a psychological impact on children born from gamete donation

The study that led to this conclusion was based on a systematic analysis of 50 studies including 4,666 participants conceived using gamete donation and living in English-speaking countries. For the first time, this study looked at the long-term psychological impact of this method of conception by comparing the results with children conceived without the use of gamete donation. In particular, it identified attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), problems of dependency, mental illness and difficulties in developing a sense of identity in these children. Until now, studies have focused on the psychological impact on parents who have had gametes donated, on parent-child relationships in adolescence, and on the fear felt by some children of hurting their parents when they want to know more about their donor.

Since 1991, more than 70,000 people have been conceived by gamete donation in the UK, and since 2005, children born from a donation have had access to their donor's identity at the age of 18. However, as the study points out, many people consider that their genetic heritage has an impact on the meaning and direction of their lives. The researchers in this study therefore advise that disclosure of donor conception should be facilitated, since the earlier it takes place, the greater the improvement in the well-being of donor children.

In Belgium, donor anonymity is still the rule except in the case of an agreement between the donor and the intended parent(s), but recent legislative proposals aim to lift this anonymity. However, it remains to be seen whether it is really possible, in this situation, to reconcile the interests of the intended parents, the donor and the children born from the donation.   

Further information: The issue of gametes in assisted reproductive techniques in Belgium