Parent Identity and ???Virtual??? Children: Why Patients Discard Rather Than Donate Unused Embryos

摘要: Many persons initially express a wish to donate their unused embryos but, for reasons that are not clear, majority later change minds. In many clinics, there continue be more recipients than donors. This study reviewed the lived experience of individuals who had considered various outcomes unused, cryopreserved embryos. Twelve couples and 9 women, totaling 33 participants, were interviewed using narrative approach. They chosen discard 6 17 months before interview. Only one no children. When starting in vitro fertilization treatment, patients been told about cryopreservation encouraged consider alternative if they did use At this point, intended any another couple having difficulty becoming pregnant. After completing families, however, all participants changed minds discarded rather donating them. first, wanted help other infertile who, like themselves, disappointed at achieved pregnancy. Through shared experiences, developed empathy women couples. determining would found idea them unpleasant uncomfortable. spoke physical, emotional, financial investments made. The final decision was driven by new view themselves from standpoint parents. seen as "personhood" biologic spiritual reality. Participants now felt giving away child. Unlike sperm or oocytes, being full relatives. concerned environment which might delivered brought up. Several feared "child" mistreated abused. Some imagined continuously looking likenesses existing Embryo donation has status somewhere between adoption tissue donation. Further work is needed learn implications an embryo social context genetic relationships dominant theme. Hopefully, it then will possible develop counseling addresses unique situation.