23 Feb 2007

In 2004 the loss of anonymity of sperm, egg and embryo donors became statute law. As a consequence children resulting from the use of donor sperm, can contact the HFEA to establish the identifying information about their biological parent when reaching the age of 18.

There has been a marked reduction in the number of sperm donors willing to donate. and the shortage of donor sperm within the UK has been described as being at a 'crisis levels'. However the demand for treatment has not reduced but increased. The loss of donor anonymity has been identified as a contributory factor.

As a consequence many IVF clinics now have waiting lists for patients seeking treatment with donor sperm which may be as long as 12 months. Patients now search the web to source overseas suppliers and as an interim measure the HFEA have allowed sperm to be imported from Denmark and the USA despite the fact that their remuneration received for donating overseas has been in excess of the maximum £250 allowable in the UK and that anonymity has been maintained.

From 23rd February 2007 it will no longer be possible to import donor sperm unless the UK prerequisites are met with regard to loss of anonymity and expense payment. The onus will be on clinics to confirm that these directives are adhered to.

The majority of overseas donor banks reimburse donors in excess of £250 and LFC is concerned that the present restricted supply of donor sperm will become significantly worse. London Fertility Centre does not consider infertile couples should have to travel overseas for a fertility service which should be available in the UK whether it relates to donor sperm, eggs, or embryos. Regulators need to have sympathy for those requiring this specific fertility service and to implement radical incentives which inevitably have to be financially acceptable to donors. The altruistic commitment of receiving £250 has overtly failed.

London Fertility Centre (LFC) is one of the most comprehensive and long standing providers of assisted conception treatments in the UK. LFC offers a broad scope of services for both male and female factor infertility as well as a caring approach.

LFC has an impressive track record in comprehensive fertility treatments and pioneered many of the new developments now used routinely in assisted conception worldwide.

LONDON FERTILITY CENTRE
COZENS HOUSE
112A HARLEY STREET
LONDON W1G 7JH
UK
TELEPHONE 020 7224 0707
FAX 020 7224 3102
info@lfc.org.uk
http://www.lfc.org.uk