Identity experiences of adults conceived via anonymous sperm donation: A qualitative study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: In Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, sperm donation was legally anonymous until recently. Consequently, information about donor conception has often been kept secret or disclosed accidentally. This study explores the identity-related experiences of adults conceived through anonymous sperm donation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults conceived via sperm donation and analyzed using multi-grounded theory. Twenty participants took part, including siblings, same-donor peer groups, and twins raised together. Identity emerged as a dynamic construct shaped by the interaction of psychological, sociological, and biological factors. Based on empirical findings and theoretical assumptions from adoption research we developed a framework that captures identity in donor conceived people as a dynamic, non-linear autobiographical process. This process involves formation, exploration, and integration of a dual identity that combines social and genetic dimensions. This process can considerably vary between individuals. Our study provides a coherent framework that may help to integrate fragmented empirical findings. Furthermore, our findings indicate that donor conceived identity exists along a spectrum, influenced by several simultaneous factors, rather than following a single way.
Authors: Daniel Drewniak, Petra Thorn, Tanja Krones
Institutions: University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich
Language: English
Subfield: Reproductive Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,720
Funder: Universität Zürich
OpenAlex ID: W7154745652