Some psychological aspects of oocyte donation from known donors on altruistic basis

To survey a sample of couples along with their chosen oocyte donors regarding psychological variables.

Patients in an infertility clinic were interviewed by a counselor using a semistructured interview format designed to gather systematic data.

Infertility clinic.

Ten recipient couples along with their donors were seen.

Oocyte recipients ranged in age from 30 to 49 years with a mean age of 40 years. Oocyte donors ranged in age from 21-34 years with a mean age of 29 years. Eighty percent of donors were married or involved in a serious relationship; 90% of donors had at least one child. The major reason for acting as a donor was altruism. Anonymity was a primary concern for recipients and donors: 80% of the sample had not confided in anyone at the present time. 70% did not intend to disclose any information at any time; 80% did not plan to inform the child, while 20% were undecided at the present time; and 90% indicated good to excellent support systems.

The present study provides significant information regarding Canadian couples undergoing the oocyte donation program with known donors.