France to Preserve Existing Embryos from Anonymous Donors Despite New Bioethics Law

The government reverses plans to destroy thousands of embryos, allowing couples to continue using them under specific conditions.

A 2021 bioethics law ending anonymous gamete donations in France prohibits the use of sperm and eggs from anonymous donors after March 31, 2025.
Initially, a decree required the destruction of thousands of embryos created with anonymous donor gametes, sparking protests from health professionals, associations, and affected couples.
On March 6, 2025, the Ministry of Health announced that these embryos will be preserved and can still be used by the couples who created them.
Couples using these embryos must sign a document acknowledging that their use may limit a child's future right to access donor identity information.
The decision follows significant public outcry and aims to respect prior agreements with couples while addressing ethical concerns about donor anonymity.