UK Reassessing Payments to Gamete Donors - Sperm and Egg Donors

The Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA) will be holding a three month public consultation to possibly change its policies on egg and sperm donations in the United Kingdom.

The major topic under consideration in the public consultation will be changing the policies regarding egg and sperm donor compensation. “Women who donate eggs are currently paid £250, but this could rise considerably under moves to address egg and sperm shortages at IVF clinics. Many fertility clinics have long waiting lists, driving some childless couples abroad.”

Currently, HFEA regulations only allow sperm and egg donors to be compensated for “reasonable expenses” including travel and lost wages. “Some fertility experts say this is too low to attract donors, and they should be paid more for their time and efforts.”

Experts believe that allowing donors to be compensated at a higher rate will go a long way towards ending the egg and sperm shortage and long waiting lists at many clinics.

The public consultation is to begin in January 2011 and no decision will be made until after the three month consultation ends.

What do you think?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11057943