Gamete Donors Connecting With Offspring and Their Families

Most egg and sperm donors are told that they will remain anonymous, either for 18 years or forever. Since the first donor-conceived teen identified his biological father via a commercial DNA test in 20051,2, this promised/mandated anonymity has become virtually impossible. Additionally, thousands of donors have chosen to initiate mutual consent contact on the Donor Sibling Registry. Many donors are happy to have contact with donor-conceived people (and their families if the children are under 18), but others may feel overwhelmed or struggle with the idea of connecting with genetic progeny.

Did I make the right choice? Even with good intentions, donors can grapple with self-doubt, wondering if their decision ultimately caused emotional strain for the child or their current (or future) family.

Will the child........

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