Some psychological aspects of oocyte donation from known donors on altruistic basis.
OBJECTIVE
To survey a sample of couples along with their chosen oocyte donors regarding psychological variables.


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


METHODS
Infertility clinic.


METHODS
Ten recipient couples along with their donors were seen.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
The present study provides significant information regarding Canadian couples undergoing the oocyte donation program with known donors.
Khamsi
F
F
Toronto Fertility Sterility Institute, Ontario, Canada.
Endman
M W
MW
Lacanna
I C
IC
Wong
J
J
D000328:Adult; D000533:Altruism; D003219:Confidentiality; D030881:Disclosure; D004644:Emotions; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D037921:Gift Giving; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008875:Middle Aged; D018587:Oocyte Donation / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support