Detección de abuso sexual en una muestra de donantes de gametos en España

Abstract

Introduction

According to international research, estimates of prevalence of sexual abuse during childhood indicate an average of 10% in men and 20% in women, although these percentages are subject to variability. In Spain, through a sample of 2,000 respondents, they found a prevalence of sexual abuse in 19% (23% women and 15% men) within the general population.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine recommends the relative exclusion of those gamete donors with a history of sexual abuse whom has not been treated by a professional. The aim of the study is to assess the suitability of the process of donation by candidates identified as victims of sexual abuse.

Material and method

The study was performed in a Spanish assisted reproduction hospital during the years 2014-2015, with a total of 170 candidates evaluated (90% female/10% male). The assessment protocol is that the donor medical evaluation is followed by a psychological evaluation prepared by psychologists of the recommended unit by the Group of Psychology of the Spanish Fertility Society. A semi-structured clinical interview was used and a specific question for detection of sexual abuse was added.

Results

All candidates responded to the question about sexual abuse. A total of 8% of the sample (100% female, 85% Spanish, 92% single, 39% with secondary education, 38% college, 69% gainfully employed and 69% with altruistic motivation for the donation) confirmed being a victim of some form of abuse. After a more specific psychological assessment in sexual abuse and trauma, all donors were accepted in the donation program.

Conclusions

The detection of sexual abuse in all its variations, from inadvertent touching to rape, is considered necessary in gamete donors. The aim is to provide emotional care to donors and ensure their suitability in the process.