Recruitment and counselling of sperm donors: ethical problems

The recruitment and counselling of sperm donors raise several ethical issues. The word 'donation' implies no payment and informed consent for donation is essential in respecting the autonomy of the giving party. This implies looking into the motivation of donors and, when accepted, information about the screening and its results. It is a sensitive issue, especially when pathology is uncovered in someone who has not asked to be screened for his own immediate benefit. Counselling may result in a refusal to take part by the prospective donor, and selection by the recruiter; the main problem being the ethical basis of the selection process. Other elements may also lead to a clash of interests between the donor, the recipients and even the prospective child, particularly in the field of anonymity and information giving about the specific circumstances of use of the donation. Implication and support counselling are essential tools in achieving an acceptable balance.