Fertility clinics have a responsibility to protect the confidentiality of egg and sperm donors. Unfortunately, there have been cases where clinics have wrongfully disclosed the identity of a donor, violating the donor’s rights and causing emotional distress. This violates the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) which is a federal law that established national standards to protect individuals’ medical records and other personal health information.
Impact on the Donor
When a fertility clinic wrongfully discloses the identity of an egg or sperm donor, it can have a number of negative consequences for the donor. They may feel a sense of violation, as their anonymity was promised to them when they agreed to donate their eggs or sperm. They may also experience emotional distress, as they may not have wanted their identity to be revealed, and may not have made arrangements for the possibility of contact with any resulting children. They may also face social and professional repercussions, as their identity is made public without their consent.
The emotional distress and other damages caused by a wrongful disclosure of identity can have a significant impact on the donor’s life. It can affect their relationships, their career, and their mental and emotional well-being.
Impact on the Child
When children reach out to a sperm or egg donor who is their biological parent and face negative consequences, it can be a deeply emotional experience for them. The child may have mixed feelings of excitement, curiosity, and a desire to establish a connection with their biological heritage. However, encountering rejection or disapproval from the donor can lead to feelings of confusion, lack of acceptance, and even guilt. The child might question their own identity and worth, struggling to understand why their desire to connect is met with negativity.
What to do if You’re a Donor Whose Identity was Wrongfully Disclosed
For victims of wrongful disclosure of identity by a fertility clinic, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. An attorney with experience in fertility clinic misconduct cases will be able to advise you on your legal options and help you navigate the process of making a claim.
At the Fertility Law Group, we understand the emotional toll that a wrongful disclosure of identity can take on a person. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of donors who have had their identities wrongfully revealed by a fertility clinic. If you or a loved one have been the victim of such misconduct, we invite you to contact our team of fertility malpractice lawyers to discuss your legal options. The initial consultation is free and strictly confidential.
