Community attitudes to artificial insemination by husband or donor, in vitro fertilization, and adoption

Although reproductive medicine is rapidly advancing within society, few studies have been conducted in this area on the opinions and attitudes of people in the community. A survey of the attitudes of 104 Geelong residents, selected by a random sampling technique, was conducted, in order to assess community attitudes to adoption, artificial insemination using husband and donor sperm, and in vitro fertilization. The results indicate that attitudes in general are positive, supporting the pro-natalist bias of society. AID was seen as the most problematic technique used, and was given less support in general than the other techniques. A surprising number of respondents felt that single and homosexual groups should have access to these techniques. Further results are discussed, including those bearing on the possibility of establishing a National Register for AID donor-offspring information.