Genetic evaluation of oocyte donors: recipient couple preferences and outcome of testing

Objective

To report preferences of recipient couples for genetic testing of their oocyte donors.

Design

Observational report of results from a genetic testing–options form implemented as part of routine care.

Setting

Private practice.

Patient(s)

Recipients and oocyte donors.

Intervention(s)

Recipient couples completed a form before screening of their oocyte donor that outlined required screening and recommended tests that the couple could accept or decline. Couples were given information about carrier frequency, risk to their child if results were abnormal, and cost.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Percentage of couples accepting optional testing.

Result(s)

Of the 63 couples with data available from their first testing-options form, 42 (67%) accepted and 21 (33%) declined fragile X testing, whereas 34 (54%) accepted and 29 (46%) declined karyotyping. When asked whether they would accept additional testing of their donor if it was recommended by a genetic counselor, 15 (24%) said that they would accept additional testing regardless of cost, 35 (56%) declined, and 13 (20%) indicated that their decision would depend on the cost. In many cases, history was elicited by the genetic counselor or test results were obtained that influenced further testing, decisions to proceed, or provided information important for the child.

Conclusion(s)

Recipient couples sometimes chose to decline tests that we recommended but did not require, despite the relatively low cost of this testing compared with the total cost of the oocyte donation cycle.

Key Words: Oocyte donation, genetic testing, patient preferences