Talking To And Supporting Your Child
More than 4,500 children have been born in Victoria as a result of donoted sperm, eggs or embryos.
Parents often struggle with the question of whether or not to tell their children that they were donor-conceived and how to go about talking to them about this.
Whenever parents feel the time is right, supportive information is available from the Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (formerly the Infertility Treatment Authority). We're here to help you talk to your children about how you became a family.
Time To Tell
What do we know about telling?
Why telling is important - medical reasons
Why telling is important - family relationships
Important changes to legislation
What if your child asks for more information about the donor?
When and how to tell
Counselling available
Reminders
* Everyone has the right to know about their background.
* Tell your children even if they are too young to fully understand.
* Secrets in families can undermine the trust and stability of family relationships.
* Be prepared to answer more questions as your child grows older.
* Support is available for families.
* Children are likely to discover they are donor-conceived on reaching adulthood.
If you would like to discuss your situation you can contact the Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority for free confidential advice, on 03 8601 5250
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