Updated terminology for gamete and embryo donors: directed (identified) to replace "known" and nonidentified to replace "anonymous": a committee opinion

Abstract

Technology and the regulatory framework in which we practice and live are continually evolving. Shifting mores and the ease with which individuals can identify one another with the assistance of social media and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing has necessitated the current change in medical terminology. For decades, gamete and embryo donors were referred to as "known" if they had a relationship with the intended parent(s) and "anonymous" if they were unknown to one another at the time of the donation. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine encourages all stakeholders with an interest in gamete and embryo donation to adopt directed (identified) in lieu of "known" and nonidentified in lieu of "anonymous" to more accurately describe the relationships between donors and recipients in this new era of social media and genetic information sharing.

Keywords: Sperm donation; assisted reproduction; gamete donation; oocyte donation.