Donor-conceived adolescents accessing donor information in The Netherlands: their needs, motivations, experiences and available support

Since the introduction of the Dutch Artificial Fertilisation Donor Data Act (Wdkb) in 2004, individuals conceived through donor conception have had the right to access identifying donor information from the age of 16. The first group became eligible in 2021, yet little is known about how adolescents with identifiable donors navigate this process. Fiom, a Dutch centre of expertise on questions about ancestry, offers counselling to donors and donor-conceived people during the exchange of information and any subsequent contact. The organisation has seen an increase in requests from adolescents, highlighting the need for tailored support. As adolescents are at a critical stage of identity formation and usually live with their families, requests for donor information can affect family dynamics. To improve understanding of these adolescents' specific needs and experiences, this study explores their motivations for seeking sperm donor information, their experiences with information exchange and contact, and the professional support required throughout their journey. Between June 2021 and April 2023, qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 donor-conceived people (17-26 years old) to explore these topics. This study highlights the diverse and evolving needs, motivations and experiences of donor-conceived adolescents in their search for donor information and contact. These are shaped by identity development, family dynamics, social support, personal circumstances and broader societal influences. While donor information can foster recognition and a sense of completeness, contact with the donor often involves emotional and practical challenges. Adolescents value tailored counselling that supports them requesting and exchanging donor information at their own pace. They also emphasise the importance of retaining agency as they explore and define the personal meaning of this information. In addition, participants expressed the need for long-term professional support to help them integrate information about the sperm donor, his family and donor siblings into their lives. The findings underscore the importance of open communication, personalised professional support and encouragement of their social network throughout this journey.