Altruism or obligation? The motivations and experience of women who donate oocytes to known recipients in assisted conception treatment: an interpretative phenomenological analysis study

Abstract

Introduction: This qualitative study was conducted to explore the motivations and experience of oocyte donors donating to women known to them.

Methods: Three women who donated oocytes to a close relative were interviewed and data were analysed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach.

Results: The two key elements noted were “motivations for donation” and “coping with the consequences of oocyte donation”. The motivation for donation was influenced by the familial bond that was strengthened by the donation process in some cases. The concept of altruistic oocyte donation stemmed from the narratives of giving the gift of motherhood and gaining a positive self-image and respect from others. Coping with the consequences of oocyte donation tests the donor identity, their wishes for a positive outcome, concerns regarding disclosure of biological motherhood and detachment from the egg and potential child.

Discussion: Motivation is influenced by a combination of factors including the rewards of altruistic behaviour, the existence and potential strengthening of the relationship between donor and recipient, but possibly also, a sense of obligation and societal expectations. Oocyte donation can be variously viewed by donors as a unique way of reproductive empowerment or an example of acceding to subtle coercion and thus disempowerment. The study also highlights the clinical as well as ethical importance of providing support services for oocyte donors and recipients.

Keywords:

• Experience
• interpretative phenomenological analysis
• motivation
• oocyte donation
• qualitative methods

Disclosure statement

The authors report that they have no conflicts of interest.

Current knowledge on the subject:

• Oocyte donation has the potential for significant psychological, physical and social impact for both the donor and recipient.

• Oocyte donation between two people known to each other is assumed to have mainly altruistic motives.

• Most primary research in this area has used survey methodology, which has not provided an in-depth exploration on the topic.

What this study adds:

• Motivation is influenced by a combination of factors including the rewards of altruistic behaviour, the existence and potential strengthening of the relationship between donor and recipient, but possibly also, a sense of obligation and societal expectations.

• Oocyte donation can be variously viewed by donors as a unique way of reproductive empowerment or an example of acceding to subtle coercion and thus disempowerment.

• The study highlights the clinical as well as ethical importance of providing individualised support services for oocyte donors and recipients.