Sperm Donor

[dlan]

I got my results in last week-azoospermia, and with an FSH level of 41-they said no point trying biopsy. The next step for my wife and I to have a baby is IVF with donor sperm. Next appointment is in June - to 'decide' whether to go ahead or not, they had run out of leaflets ! so we're trying to find about it all ourselves, and have a million questions. I'm really concerned about the legal situation. would I have to tell the child about the donor or put the donors details on the birth certificate? If we don't tell the child, what happens when it turns 18? Anyone any advice where we can find out?   

[mensfe_admin]

Hello - your FSH of 41 would signify "non obstructive" azoospermia hense your clinician ruling out a biopsy, we hope you receive the support you require in coming to terms with this diagnosis.

Your clinic (if in the UK) should provide support counselling for you and your wife in order that you may find answers to all the many questions you have, not just offer you an information leaflet.
A summary of the questions you have may be answered in our section on male infertility (see home page). This covers current ledgislation for both donors and recipiants. If you feel this is not as comprehensive as you need you could access the HFEA website, they are the government body that deals in all ledgislation for fertility issues in the UK.

Your concerns on legal matters may be answered more easily, however those you have in regards to the emotional welfare of (your) possible children are difficult and complexed. Again as previously mentioned these issues/implications (emotional, practical, clinical and welfare of the child issues) can be discussed in great detail with a specialist (at your clinic) in order that you may have all your questions answered and so obtain informed choice. With this you will be in a better position to choose the best road to take, for yourself and your wife.
Counselling is a mandatory service that all fertility clinics have to provide in the UK for there patients when requisted.

With regards to your last question this is an area that would be covered with a specialist counsellor (implications counselling), however it is left to the parents, if, when, or how, to tell their child how they were born.
With reference to the names that go on the birth certificate these would be the legal parents "only". Which are (i) the birthing mother and (ii) her husband or partner.
There is no ledgislation requiring any other details to be entered onto the birth certificate.