Health outcomes of school-aged children conceived using donor sperm

The use of donor sperm is increasing, yet limited information is available about the health and development of children conceived from donor sperm. This retrospective descriptive study aimed to assess health and development in a cohort of school-aged children who were conceived using donor sperm. Participants included 224 children, aged 5-11 years, who were conceived using donor sperm. Participants' mothers completed a questionnaire comprising validated scales examining their child's current and past physical, psychosocial and mental health, healthcare needs and child development, as well as the mothers' health and wellbeing. At the conclusion of the study, the response rate was 296 out of 407 (72.7%), with a participation rate of 224 out o 407 (55.0%). Compared with the normative Australian population, sperm donor-conceived children had similar physical, psychosocial and mental health and development. A modest increase in healthcare needs was evident. The study concludes that in school-aged children conceived using donor sperm, most aspects of child health and wellbeing are similar to the general population.