[Familial relations in connection with donor insemination. Psychological effects of secretiveness]

In Norway approximately 150 children are born every year as a result of artificial insemination. In 1987 an Act was passed regulating this practice. Hospital gynaecologists are given the authority to implement this Act, and the responsibility for doing so. With the current practice of artificial insemination, two types of secrets evolve: The anonymity of the donor, as required by law, will prevent the child from ever identifying its biological father. The secrecy of conception, as recommended by experienced gynaecologists as the best method of protecting the child and the parents, will continuously present the family with unresolved questions that may create problems within the family. It is assumed that it would present an undue burden on the child not to be able to identify its biological father. As a family psychiatrist the author has discussed the secrecy issue with nine couples with children conceived by artificial insemination using donor semen, and another eight couples that were offered this treatment. A common denominator for these couples turned out to be the problem of living their entire life not knowing the origin of their child. Most of the couples are afraid that the secret could be divulged during a family quarrel. Invisible alliances could develop between members of the family. In the long run, honesty about the conception reduces the mental strain on the family. Family therapists will generally advise against secrecy in these matters and will help parents choosing alternative ways of coping with the problems.