Stay away from websites offering Canadian women free sperm donations, Cassels
Brock lawyer warns

TORONTO, Dec. 13 /CNW/ - With the Internet again acting as the distributor of all manner of items, Canadian women are among those being targeted by websites connecting them to 'free sperm donations.'

"But semen for assisted conception is actually regulated as a drug in Canada unless it is donated to a spouse or sexual partner," notes Emily Larose, partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP. "And, it appears certain websites are offering donated semen for assisted conception without following the necessary protocols."

Canada's Processing and Distribution of Semen for Assisted Conception Regulations state that semen for assisted conception can only be distributed (other than to a spouse or sexual partner) when it has been processed as required. This processing includes donor screening, testing and a quarantine period, as well as proper labelling. These protocols help to protect Canadian women and their future children from the possibility of infection.

"Health Canada has issued an alert about the potential dangers of using fresh donor semen for assisted conception and identified three Australian websites that provide a list of Canadian semen donors. Unfortunately, the Internet has made it easier to access items and drugs - including semen in this case -  that don't comply with Canadian laws," adds Larose.

About Emily Larose
Emily Larose (http://www.casselsbrock.com/People/Emily_Larose) is a partner in the Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP Advocacy Group.  She provides advice and representation in various regulated industries, and has specific expertise working with Health Canada regulated clients.

About Cassels Brock
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP (www.casselsbrock.com) is a full-service law firm with more than 200 lawyers working in its Toronto office. The firm provides legal advice to clients including entrepreneurs, mid-market enterprises and multinational corporations.

For further information:

To interview Emily Larose, please contact: [email protected] or 416-860-5217 or  
Teresa Donia, iAMBIC Communications: [email protected] 905-508-5550