The Sociology of Donor Conception: Perspectives from People with Lived Experience

This session offers a sociological discussion of third-party reproduction, including sperm donation, egg donation, embryo donation, and surrogacy. In particular, we invite papers that focus on, or are grounded in, the lived experiences of those involved: donor-conceived persons, parents, donors, and other stakeholders. We aim to capture these experiential worlds through a range of methodological approaches, including action research conducted by or in collaboration with people with lived experience, life history and narrative inquiry, and quantitative studies.

Legal systems, practices, and challenges surrounding donor conception vary greatly across regions. Amidst such diversity, the perspectives of people with lived experience remain underrepresented in research. Is it possible to challenge this state, examine the framework of ethical donor conception, and develop future frameworks based on rights and governance?

Through the lens of donor conception, this session invites cross-cutting discussions spanning science and technology studies; new kinship studies; gift, exchange, and market; cross-border reproductive care; medical sociology; genetics and social relations; gender and sexuality; law and regulation; psychosocial counselling; social welfare and care; and history.