Anonymity and secrecy in human reproduction with donor participation: shifts in perspectives

Abstract

Reproductive technologies, when separating sexu ality from reproduction, interfered not only in the relationships between the sexes, but also in the relationships of filiation, enabling the emergence of family settings due to the access to genetic ma terial from others (egg, semen or embryo donors). The secrecy and anonymity that have always in volved gamete donors have been challenged. In the last twenty years, various countries changed their legislation, adopting the policy of open identity of the donor of the genetic material. The possibility to know and have access to this identity (when reach ing adulthood) or even the search for half-brothers can be a reality in many countries for children born through access to reproductive technology. The article emphasizes the matter of secrecy and ano nymity involving the use of genetic material from others in reproductive technologies. The argument is set up through the debate in the United Kingdom concerning the abolition of the anonymity and its implications under the perspective of donors, claim ant couples and the child. The study also reflects on the conceptions of family involved in this debate.