What are some of the implications of becoming a sperm or egg donor?
Donating sperm or eggs to help others become parents is a wonderful and generous gift. However, unlike donating other human tissue, such as blood or organs, donating sperm or eggs helps to create human life and has different implications. There are consequences not only for donors and their families, but for the people who receive the donation and for any children born as a result. Therefore, it is important to think carefully about the decision to donate. Exploring all the implications with an experienced counsellor is recommended. (Regulations in respect of counselling services are being developed under section 14 of the Act.) If the donation involves people who know one another, counselling is especially important to address the participants’ roles, expectations and emotional boundaries. In addition, a legal consultation helps to ensure that everyone’s interests are protected. Egg donors should consult a physician to discuss the medical implications of the procedure. Unlike donating
