The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has proposed an increase in the compensation given to sperm and egg donors across the UK.
The suggested revision, follows deliberations at a meeting held on March 20, 2024, where it was agreed that sperm donors will be allowed to receive an additional £10 per donation, with the recommended compensation rising from £35 to £45 per donation cycle.
Similarly, egg donors are set to benefit from a substantial increase, with compensation rising from £750 per donation cycle to £986.
Inflation an important consideration
The chair of HFEA, Julia Chain, highlighted how important it was to take account of the impact of inflation on the value of existing compensation rates. The proposal aims to address this disparity by incorporating an inflation-based adjustment, acknowledging the commitment and contribution of donors to the fertility process.
The recommendation, based on a calculated inflation rate of 31.5 percent between 2012-13 and 2023-24, is applicable to all fertility clinics in the UK. However, it is a sad situation to add that donors at Scottish NHS clinics are ineligible for this compensation.
Stakeholders, including donors, donor-conceived individuals, and industry experts, have advocated for an increase in compensation to align with inflation and address the evolving ‘cost of living crisis.’
The HFEA intends to implement the revised compensation rates in the near future, subject to resource availability and procedural adjustments. Additionally, it plans to review the compensation periodically.
In the USA the costs are higher
In the USA, the cost of egg and sperm donation can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the clinic, location, donor profiles, and any additional services required. Generally, egg donation can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 per cycle, excluding additional expenses like medications, screenings, and legal fees. Sperm donation is typically less expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,500 per donation.
These costs encompass various aspects including donor compensation, medical evaluations, genetic testing, and administrative fees. Intended parents may also incur expenses related to fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, which can significantly increase the overall cost. Insurance coverage for these procedures varies, with many plans not covering donor-related expenses, leaving the financial burden on the intended parents.
Additionally, if the intended parents opt for specialized services like frozen egg or sperm donation, the costs can be higher due to the additional processes involved. Overall, the expenses associated with egg and sperm donation in the USA can be substantial, requiring careful financial planning for those considering these options.
