Sperm donation safety: What you must know before choosing donors

Sperm donation safety: What you must know before choosing donors (Photo: iStock)

Those interested in fertility matters may already be aware of recent headlines involving a single sperm donor in Europe. This donor’s sperm has resulted in the birth of over 100 children across multiple countries. The major concern is that the donor carried a genetic mutation that has been passed on to many of these children. This mutation predisposes affected individuals to an estimated 90 per cent lifetime risk of developing certain cancers. Tragically, some children have already died from cancer-related conditions.

Sperm donation is relatively common and has helped many individuals and couples achieve parenthood. The case highlighted in the media involves a rare inherited genetic condition linked to one donor. However, it has also underscored the need for the public to better understand how donor programmes operate and what questions should be asked before using donor sperm.