A review of mathematical models used to determine sperm donor limits for infertility treatment

Objective

To review mathematical models used to determine sperm donor limits for infertility treatment and to consider the need to develop a new, internationally recognized and applicable model for calculating limits.

Design

Literature review.

Setting

Models for determining sperm donor limits were identified through bibliographic databases.

Patient(s)

Published models.

Intervention(s)

Variables used in the models were defined, evaluated, and assessed for relevancy and applicability.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Relevance and applicability of model variables used to predict the number of consanguineous matings, probability of unwitting sibling mating and contribution to F (coefficient of inbreeding).

Result(s)

Models found to be outdated and inadequate for the present-day.

Conclusion(s)

Many countries have introduced limits to the number of offspring each anonymous sperm donor can father but these limits vary considerably. Published models for calculating sperm donor limits are in need of improvement and it is recommended that an enhanced, internationally applicable formula be developed for calculating acceptable limits. Moreover, it is recommended that further research be undertaken into the social and familial consequences of the revocation of sperm donor anonymity and the implications for the setting of sperm donor limits.

Key Words: Sperm donor limits, mathematical models, donor anonymity, infertility treatment, consanguinity, familial, assortive mating, phenotype