Donor Conception and the Search for Information ― From Secrecy and Anonymity to Openness

This book examines the extent to which laws in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia regulate access to assisted reproductive technology (ART) and control the use of surrogacy and payments made to surrogate mothers. It also provides a review of the varied answers offered to the questions about parenthood that arise when either method of assisted conception results in the birth of a child. Finally it identifies models which may assist in the further development of the law in these jurisdictions. Whilst the book provides comprehensive information about the laws of each jurisdiction where necessary, the focus is upon differences in approach and style. The study thus reflects contrasting perceptions of the role the law should play in the highly personal matter of human reproduction. The book will be of value to academics, students and legal practitioners involved with this area. It is also relevant to policy makers, health practitioners and anyone with an interest in the subject.

Dr Sonia Allan is at the Macquarie University Sydney, Australia. Her teaching and research interests are in the areas of health and biotechnology law. She has published on these and related areas.