The number of babies born in the United Kingdom through donor sperm is on the rise, according to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). A recent report shares that the number of children born via sperm donation in the UK has more than tripled over the past 13 years. In 2019 alone, approximately 2,800 babies were born through donor sperm, a drastic increase from just 900 in 2006.

Interestingly, more than half of the sperm used in UK fertility clinics is now imported from abroad. In 2020, 52% of newly registered sperm donors came from international sources, such as Denmark and the US, more than double the 22% reported in 2010.

This growth mirrors broader global trends of growing inclusivity and accessibility of modern family building as more individuals and couples turn to donor conception to build their families. 

The rise in donor sperm usage can be attributed to a range of factors. More same-sex couples and single parents are pursuing biological parenthood, and advances in assisted reproductive technologies have made the process more accessible. In addition, shifting societal attitudes have opened the door for greater acceptance of non-traditional families, empowering more people to seek out donor conception as a viable and fulfilling path to parenthood.

But this increase in donor births also raises important legal, ethical, and emotional considerations both for families and for donor-conceived individuals.

One key issue that has come into focus is the number of offspring that may be conceived from a single donor. In the UK, regulations allow for a maximum of 10 families to use the same donor, a limit intended to reduce the risk of accidental contact between half-siblings and mitigate the emotional and psychological complexities that can arise from large numbers of donor-related siblings. However, even with these limits, donor-conceived individuals may find themselves part of a broader network of genetic relatives, particularly as at-home DNA testing kits like 23andMe, as well as ancestry websites, make it easier to uncover these connections.

In an effort to combat these issues, donor anonymity was removed in the UK in 2005, giving donor-conceived individuals the right to request identifying information about their donor once they turn 18. This move toward greater transparency aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of identity and genetic heritage for donor-conceived people.

At The Surrogacy Law Center, while we are based in the U.S., we closely monitor international developments in reproductive law. Whether you’re considering sperm donation, egg donation, or surrogacy, domestically or abroad, understanding the legal landscape is essential to making informed, secure choices. Contact us today to learn more!