{
  "id": 7447126,
  "title": "I'm childless not by choice, but I do have biological children",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/im-childless-not-by-choice-but-i-do-have-biological-children",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-15T02:01:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-15/how-sperm-donation-helped-me-make-peace-with-being-childless/107046096"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Many people had remarked that Brett would make an excellent father. The 49-year-old resident of New South Wales expressed appreciation for this sentiment, but the reality that he could not have a child of his own deeply affected him. After attempting to conceive for an extended period, Brett and his wife received a fertility specialist's assessment indicating a low likelihood of a natural pregnancy. The couple ultimately decided against undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Brett contemplated becoming a sperm donor but hesitated due to concern over upsetting his wife. However, upon learning that his cousin had used an egg donor to conceive, his wife suggested that Brett consider donation instead. The couple discussed the idea, and Brett ultimately weighed the decision. His cousin's pregnancy using donor eggs reinforced his wife's support for his decision.\n\nBrett initiated the process by contacting a donor program administered by an Australian fertility care provider. He completed necessary paperwork, underwent blood tests and genetic screening, and completed a questionnaire about his personal details. This included aspects such as his interests, education, and family background. Brett also underwent psychological screening and, as a married individual, had a separate conversation with the counsellor. He emphasized the importance of understanding that he would not have a legal or emotional connection with the children conceived through his donation.\n\nCounsellors guided Brett through the emotional implications of becoming a donor, stressing that it is a significant decision. He acknowledged that he would be open to contact from the children when they reached maturity, typically between 16 to 18 years of age, depending on state regulations. This legislation allows donor-conceived individuals to access information about their biological parent. Although Brett was aware that some children might choose not to seek contact, he remained comfortable with the possibility. Upon receiving news of the first birth from his donation, Brett shared the news with his parents, who responded with happiness and surprise. He has since shared his experience with others, including how the process unfolded and the positive impact it has had on his life. He noted that the donation has given him a renewed sense of fulfillment, knowing that his contribution has helped create families and brighten the lives of others.",
  "summary": "Not being able to have a baby of my own was painful. Sperm donation helped me move through that grief.",
  "key_points": [
    "Brett, 49, in New South Wales, chose sperm donation over IVF.",
    "Donor program assessed his suitability through blood tests and genetic screening.",
    "Brett connected with first birth from his donation, feeling fulfillment."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Becoming a sperm donor has given Brett a sense of fulfillment and purpose, allowing him to contribute to creating families despite being childless not by choice.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}