Psychosocial issues associated with being a semen donor.

Little attention has been given to the psychosocial issues associated with being a semen donor and some of the reasons for this are outlined. An extensive range of psychosocial issues is discussed. These are presented via a 'relationship model' which has been developed to illustrate how the donor, through his act of donating, is involved in a series of relationships. Some of these are interactive, in that they are two-way relationships, while others are non-reactive, being a one-way relationship only. These relationships and their impact need to be considered by, and discussed with, prospective donors. Only then will the donor and not merely his donation be responded to. Discussion of all the issues is essential if the principle of informed consent is to have any meaning. The reports of the Committees of Inquiry that have been set up in various parts of the world (as they relate to the psychosocial aspects of semen donation) are reviewed. They, along with this paper, suggest that a comprehensive service needs to be provided for semen donors and this must include consideration of the psychosocial issues. Suggestions regarding such a service are made.