Research project Technical advancements in terms of direct-to-consumer DNA-testing have led to a novel and fast-growing phenomenon - networks of individuals related through sperm donation who connect in adulthood. The aim of the project is to investigate this type of post-donation relationships from multiple perspectives (donor-conceived persons, donors and family members) and over time.
Increasing numbers of people use sperm donation to become parents and this development has given rise to novel and complex psychosocial challenges. In Sweden ~ 1000 babies are born following treatment with donated gametes each year. Sperm donation affects many – not just donors and donor-conceived persons (DCPs) but also their family members. Sperm donation entails that individuals who are genetic half-siblings grow up in separate families, often unaware of each other’s existence. Technical advancements in terms of direct-to-consumer DNA-testing have led to a novel and fast-growing phenomenon - networks of individuals related through sperm donation who connect in adulthood. Post-donation networks typically consist of DCPs and their close family but may also include the donor and his relatives. Previous studies suggest that being part of such a network can be very rewarding but also entails specific challenges. There is a lack of studies assessing development of post-donation contact over time.
The project employs a longitudinal design with a mixed methods approach to capture group-level patterns over time as well as to explore individual experiences. The project includes post-donation networks consisting of DCPs, their children, partners and parents. In case donors and their family members are involved in the networks, these groups are also invited. Data are collected at multiple time points with two years between initial data collection and follow-up, by a combination of questionnaires, individual interviews, and focus groups.
