Similarities and differences between anonymous and directed candidates for oocyte donation.

PURPOSE

To compare anonymous and directed candidates for oocyte donation within a single program.

METHODS

75 consecutive candidates for oocyte donation (49 anonymous and 26 directed) were studied using a semistructured interview to collect data on demographics, psychosocial history, motivation, and candidate views on disclosure to a potential child.

RESULTS

Donor groups were similar with regard to race, religion and education. Anonymous donors (mean age 27.33 years, SD 4.17) were significantly younger than directed donors (mean age 37.54 years, SD 4.94), (t = -4.83, df = 73, p < 0.001). Marital duration was significantly longer for directed donors (6.92 years, SD 5.64) versus (2.57 years, SD 3.96) for anonymous donors (t = -3.50, df = 38.47, p = .001). Forty-one percent of anonymous and 69% of directed donors had previous pregnancies (X2 = 4.60, p < .05). A greater percentage of anonymous donors (34.7%) felt that the potential child should be informed of his or her origins, compared to 19% of directed donors, but this difference fell short of statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

There were more similarities than differences among groups of potential donors with the exception of age, marital status, and previous pregnancies. Differing views about disclosure were suggested in both groups with anonymous donors tending to opt for disclosure.