Unconventional conception

Many Canadian couples dream of having children. They'd prefer not to adopt, opting to conceive naturally. A startling Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) investigation reveals increasing numbers of Canadians turn to the black market in their quest to conceive a baby, illegally buying human eggs.

As part of the research, six Canadian women advertising their eggs on the Internet were contacted. Within days, three wrote back with an offer and each said they were willing to undergo treatment that could net as many as 20 human eggs. Their price ranged from Cdn $5,000-$7,000. How this fee structure evolved is unclear.

Dr. Roger Pierson, a fertility doctor in Saskatoon, was beside himself. "We would assume there would be a subterranean traffic in eggs and sperm based on telephone conversations, but to have it written down is beyond my comprehension..."

As an effort to prevent cloning, the Assisted Human Reproduction Technology Act was passed in 2004. Curiously enough, it's not illegal for women to sell eggs, but it is illegal for anyone to buy them. Anyone convicted of buying eggs can face a fine of up to $500,000 or 10 years in jail. To date, no case has arisen in a major dispute. Nonetheless, hushed financial settlements remain commonly accepted.

Its widely known that egg donor in Canada have been compensated. Sellers don't apparently donate their time and body for the money, but rather, to help childless couples. But given physical and emotional tolls, compensation is requested. For obvious legal reasons, buyers and seller will sign documents for clinics to say that no money has been exchanged, then, turn around and do it in the nearby parking lot, like a kind gesture of good karma.

Concern had been expressed by decision-makers that women of lower socio-economic status would stoop to selling their eggs as an easy way to get money. Rather than legitimize what is already happening, the legal system seems to cover it up and focus on the negative impact it may have on more vulnerable populations. Weird approach, when policy-makers selectively turn a blind eye. Unconventional conception itself isn't breaking the law, but people will go great lengths to make it happen.  Who controls who gets what compensation remains personal and private.