A copy of the full press release has been provided below, as published on the Fertility Society Australia website on 1st November 2017.
Statement from the Fertility Society of Australia re: Sisters TV drama series on Channel 10
The Fertility Society of Australia is the peak body representing Australian and New Zealand scientists, doctors, researchers, nurses, consumers and counsellors in assisted reproduction.
The Fertility Society understands the storyline in Sisters may raise some questions for donor recipients and their parents/families.
The controls in place through the Fertility Society’s accreditation processes, administered by its Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC), prevent the events portrayed in the Sisters program occurring in Australia.
RTAC sets strict standards for the performance of assisted reproductive technology through an audited Code of Practice and the granting of licences to practice this technology within Australia, including sperm and egg donation and IVF.
The Fertility Society is, however, concerned about unregulated donor conception websites that seek to facilitate use of donated sperm, eggs and embryos between donors and potential recipients. It is the recommendation of the Fertility Society that these sites should not be used to create families.
People seeking assisted conception should use the professional services of an RTAC accredited service provider.
For more information, go to www.fertilitysociety.com.au
Professor Michael Chapman
President, The Fertility Society of Australia
