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Rijnstate and Retired Gynaecologist Settle Case Over Misused IVF Sperm

The confidential deal follows revelations uncovered by DNA genealogy that sperm provided for treatment was used as donor material without consent.

Overview

  • The IVF couple, the mother and the donor-conceived daughter reached a settlement with Rijnstate Hospital and the implicated gynaecologist, ending a long legal dispute.
  • No terms were disclosed, and the parties agreed not to share details, with the victims’ lawyer saying the agreement provides recognition and closure.
  • The case surfaced after DNA family-tree research linked a donor-conceived woman to a man who had only provided sperm for his own IVF treatment in the 1980s.
  • The man is a carrier of a hereditary disease that was passed to the donor child and her son, leading to lasting health consequences.
  • Investigative reporting, including a KRO-NCRV documentary, reported that the doctor used his own sperm despite sworn denials; Rijnstate says rules and procedures have since tightened and the doctor is now retired.