20/12/2025
Following a recent BBC investigation into the use of donor s***m across multiple European countries, there’s been renewed discussion about how s***m donation is regulated, and why those rules matter.
👉 In this video, Verity breaks it down.
In the UK, s***m donation is tightly regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA):
• A donor’s s***m can be used to help no more than 10 families through licensed UK clinics
• Donation cannot be financially incentivised, beyond reasonable expenses
While this ethical approach protects against exploitation, it also significantly limits the pool of donors. Fewer donors means less choice for patients, longer waiting times, and in some cases reduced access to donors who meet specific genetic, medical or personal criteria, which can directly affect the quality and suitability of donor s***m available in the UK.
Across Europe, regulations vary widely. Some countries allow financial incentives and far higher donor limits, with no shared European cap or central tracking system. This difference is central to the BBC story, which highlighted how one donor’s s***m was used across multiple countries, raising serious ethical and safety concerns.
At Truth Fertility, we believe this conversation isn’t about fear. It’s about transparency, regulation and informed choice. S***m donors are incredibly generous, and people building families deserve clarity, choice and confidence at every step of the process.
🎥 Watch the video to hear Verity explain what this means in practice.
💬 Questions about s***m donation or your options? We’re always here to help.
***mDonation
