Knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes toward parenthood following gamete donation in Italy

Objective

This study aimed to explore the knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes toward parenthood following gamete donation among the general population in Italy.

Background

In Western societies, where genetic continuity often defines kinship, couples using gamete donation to conceive may face societal stigma and lack of acknowledgment, potentially impacting their well-being. As openness about donor conception is encouraged in donor-conceived families' social networks, research on public perceptions of parenthood after gamete donation is necessary.

Method

Six hundred twenty-four participants completed an online survey exploring their beliefs toward parenthood after gamete donation. Participants also assessed hypothetical parental abilities in five randomly presented scenarios depicting couples having a child using different conception methods.

Results

Participants showed limited knowledge of donor conception pathways and positive beliefs about parenthood following donor conception. Greater concerns were expressed regarding parenting abilities in spontaneously conceiving couples compared to those using donor and nondonor assisted reproduction technologies and concerns about the stability of relationships in donor-conceiving couples.

Conclusion

Couples using donor assisted reproduction technologies are perceived as more committed to parenthood despite concerns about genetic asymmetry and limited understanding of donor conception.

Implications

The societal unawareness of donor conception may present challenges for families in legitimizing their family building within their social contexts.