Israeli students’ perceptions regarding sperm donation: dilemmas reflections with dominant demographic effect

Abstract

Background Sperm donation has undergone significant medical and social transformations in recent decades. This study aimed to explore Israeli students’ perceptions towards sperm donation and investigate the potential influence of demographic characteristics on these perceptions. Design The study encompassed 254 students from Tel-Aviv University, who completed an anonymous online survey in January–February 2021. This cross-sectional quantitative online survey, comprised 35 questions categorized into three sections: demographic data, assessment of prior knowledge, and perceptions of sperm donation (general perceptions related to both positive and negative stigmas associated with sperm donation, the roles and activities of sperm banks, and considerations surrounding identity disclosure versus the anonymity of sperm donors and their offspring). Results Participants exhibited a relatively low level of prior knowledge (mean 31.2 ± 19 of 100). Scores for positive and negative stigmas ranged from 1.3 to 2.2. Notably, the statement “Donors’ anonymity preservation is crucial to maintain sperm donation” received a mean of 3.7. Seeking for anonymous sperm donation identity both by recipients and offspring was ranked with low means (1.5 and 1.7, respectively). However, the pursuit of half-siblings by mothers or siblings themselves received higher ratings ranging from 2.7 to 3. Women’s stigma ranking were notably lower, while men emphasized the importance of donor anonymity. Conclusions Sperm Banks hold a position of medical authority rather than being perceived as being commercial entity. The preservation of donor anonymity is widely accepted as a crucial element, prioritized over the requests for identity disclosure from recipients and offspring. Demographic parameters exhibit a strong and precise effects on participants’ perceptions.