The perspectives of recipients and their partners conceiving through oocyte donation on counselling and healthcare: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Oocyte donation (OD), a treatment with increasing prevalence, introduces challenges in fertility and obstetric care, including pregnancy complications and psychosocial issues. As numerous healthcare providers encounter OD pregnancies, understanding the perspectives of involved stakeholders becomes crucial for improving OD healthcare management. Objectives: This study explores perspectives regarding counselling and healthcare of women and their partners conceiving through OD. Design: A qualitative case study design using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Methods: Three in-depth focus groups with 13 women and 5 partners, who had experienced OD pregnancy and/or delivery after treatment in either a Dutch or foreign centre, were conducted. Results: The findings show the significance of comprehensive counselling throughout the entire OD process. Preconception counselling was positively evaluated when various subjects were covered, not only the logistical part, but also emotional impact and ethical issues. However, the study revealed variations in type and quality of counselling provided, depending on healthcare provider. Participants often received contradictory information, and desired emotional and peer support. While psychosocial support was available before OD treatment in the Netherlands, it was often lacking in treatment abroad. Conclusion: To improve OD healthcare management, participants stated various recommendations. Mostly appointed was implementing a (inter)national guideline, which emphasizes the necessity for standardized and comprehensive counselling and healthcare for women and their partners undergoing OD treatment.