Post-mortem sperm retrieval in new European Union countries: case report

This paper describes post-mortem sperm retrieval from a man who had given prior written consent to the retrieval and use of his sperm in assisted reproduction before his accidental death. The case illustrates some of the complex ethical and legal issues occurring in a new European Union (EU) country and the need for prior preparation by the medical teams involved. We also discuss a questionnaire sent to Centres of Assisted Reproduction in other new EU countries, which reveals a dearth of both legislation and guidelines for post-mortem sperm retrieval. If this method becomes more requested in these culturally diverse countries in the future, the situation demands public debate first of all at the national level.