The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA)
The HFEA was set up in 1990 under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act to license and regulate clinics which provide IVF treatment (with or without a donor) and storage of sperm or embryos. Clinics can only provide these services if they have a license from the HFEA. In addition to this function the HFEA also:
- Publishes a code of practice for clinics who carry out these activities
- Keeps a confidential register of information about donors, patients and treatments
- Gives advice and information to people seeking fertility treatment.
The HFEA publishes the following information which will be useful for people wanting egg donation IVF:
The Patients' Guide To DI and IVF Clinics
This gives information about fertility treatments, the issues involved with these treatments and advice on selecting a clinic. It also comes with a booklet of all centres licensed by the HFEA giving their addresses and phone numbers, treatments offered and success rates.
Leaflets On Egg Donation And Donors And The Law
These leaflets give full information on what treatment is involved and the legal position regarding donors. Many clinics will include a copy of these leaflets in their own literature.