Genetic evaluation procedures at sperm banks in the United States

Objective: To assess how genetic evaluations of sperm donor applicants are performed in the United States. Design: A questionnaire was designed to assess: 1) the professionals involved in the family history evaluation and genetic screening; 2) the genetic testing, counseling, and informed consent processes; and 3) how the results of genetic evaluations and new risk information is communicated to donors. Setting: Semen donor facilities. Participant(s): Representatives of semen donor facilities. Intervention(s): None. Main Outcome Measure(s): Descriptive data. Result(s): Thirteen responses were received. All of the facilities assessed donors' family histories; eight of the facilities (62%) routinely informed donors about the results of these evaluations. At the majority of facilities (10/13), informed consent for genetic testing is obtained as part of the overall contract to be a sperm donor. Genetic counselors are employed full-time at two facilities and part-time at five others. Conclusion(s): There is variability in the education and informed consent processes for semen donor applicants, including variable communication about the limitations of genetic tests and the potential implications for the donors' own children. Further research into the best practices for education and consent for sperm donor applicants may be beneficial to ensure the well-being of the donors and their future offspring. (C) 2013 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.