Surrogacy Awareness Week 2024

As National Surrogacy Week begins in the UK, this year will focus on donor conceived voices and the importance of listening to those born through surrogacy and donor conception. Surrogacy and donor conception are intricately linked, as some surrogacy journeys also involve the use of donor gametes. In the UK surrogacy regulations permit either donor eggs or donor sperm to be used although egg donation is the most common form of donor conception within surrogacy arrangements.

The Importance of Openness and Transparency

Openness and transparency are vital for individuals born through surrogacy and egg donation in the UK. Unlike other countries, surrogacy in the UK is altruistic, fostering a relationship with the surrogate beyond the birth of the child. This non-transactional, lasting connection is not only expected but encouraged. This model promotes a healthier, more supportive environment for all parties involved.

This model raises an intriguing question: can the principles of openness and long-term relationships also be achieved in egg donation? Organisations like SurrogacyUK and My Surrogacy Journey have UK based known egg donors who desire ongoing relationships with the recipients and the children born from their donations. This approach mirrors the UK surrogacy model and is highlighted as an option for those looking to build their families in this way.

The Impact of Listening to Donor Conceived Individuals

At the last conference held by SurrogacyUK, a most popular and insightful session was dedicated to hearing from individuals born through donor conception. Their testimonies underscored the importance of information and knowledge about their origins. Secrecy, it was learned, is detrimental. The ability to engage in known donations in the UK is a vital option, although it remains underpublicised, particularly by fertility clinics where the anonymous donation model prevails.

While anonymous donation allows individuals born through donor conception to access limited information at age 16 and more details at age 18, those born through donation state that these steps, though in the right direction, are insufficient. The need for greater transparency and support is paramount.

Amplifying Donor Conceived Voices

The statement from Donor Conceived UK encapsulates an essential principle: “It is not OK to speak about the donor conceived experience without including the donor conceived voice. The voice of the DC UK Community also needs to be amplified.”

For those interested in hearing the voices of donor conceived people, the consultation report by Donor Conceived UK is an excellent resource: Access Consultation. This document provides valuable insights and reinforces the importance of including and amplifying donor conceived voices in discussions and practices.

As Surrogacy Awareness Week unfolds, we’ll share resources and stories to educate and inform the public about these important issues. By exploring these topics, we aim to foster greater understanding for donor conceived individuals, families and surrogates. Through education and open dialogue, we hope to build a more transparent and supportive future for surrogacy and donor conception in the UK.