Donor Programme

A donor programme may be considered when using the patient's own eggs or sperm is medically difficult, has repeatedly been unsuccessful or carries a recognised reproductive concern.
Donor treatment may involve:
- Donor sperm
- Donor eggs
- Donor embryos
The recommendation must be made only after fertility evaluation, counselling and discussion of the medical, emotional and legal implications.

Donor Sperm

Donor sperm may be considered in selected situations such as:
- Absence of sperm in the semen
- Severe sperm abnormalities
- Failure to obtain usable sperm after medical evaluation
- A recognised risk associated with using the male partner's sperm
- Another medically appropriate indication
The donor sample is sourced and screened through the legally permitted ART-bank process.

Donor Eggs
- Ovarian reserve is severely reduced
- The ovaries do not produce usable eggs
- There is premature ovarian insufficiency
- Multiple IVF cycles have not produced suitable embryos
- A medical or genetic concern affects the use of the patient's own eggs
Donor eggs are fertilised with the intended male partner's sperm or another legally permitted sperm source, and a resulting suitable embryo may be transferred to the recipient's uterus.
 

Donor Embryos

Donor-embryo treatment may be discussed when both egg and sperm-related concerns are present or when previous treatment with the couple's own gametes has not been successful. The process is subject to legal eligibility, availability, medical assessment and consent.

 

Legal and Ethical Requirements
- Donor gametes must be obtained through a registered ART bank.
- Donors must undergo prescribed medical screening.
- Written informed consent is required.
- Donor and patient information must remain confidential as required by law.
- The sale or commercial trading of gametes and embryos is prohibited.
- Donor sourcing and use must comply with current ART regulations.