A Comprehensive Review of Reproductive Egg Donation Web Sites

Abstract

Reproductive egg donation is a growing business in the United States, serving an estimated one in five couples who experience reproductive challenges in their lifetime. Reproductive egg agencies are increasingly utilizing the Internet to inform and recruit potential donors. Considerable variability in the portrayals of the medical process, comprehensive disclosure of the medications involved, and the style of appeals employed by such agencies exists on many of the most popular web sites analyzed. This research provides a comprehensive review of the information provided to potential donors. Implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Egg donation
• online information
• oocyte donation
• reproductive egg
• web sites

Additional information

Notes on contributors

James R. Carter

James R. Carter, MPH ([email protected]), is a doctoral student, The Ohio State University, 1947 College Road, Columbus, OH 43210;

Lindsay B. Gezinski

Lindsay Gezinski, PhD ([email protected]), is Assistant Professor, The University of Utah, 395 South 1500 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112.

Sharvari Karandikar-Chheda

Sharvari Karandiar-Chheda, PhD ([email protected]), is Assistant Professor, The Ohio State University, 1947 College Road, Columbus, OH 43210;