Below are some resources for further genealogy research, donor conception history and research studies
Survey opportunity
Victorian Health are seeking feedback from people who:
have used ART/IVF services (including egg freezing) anywhere in Australia – you may live in a rural, regional or metropolitan area
have donated genetic material such as sperm, eggs or embryos
have supported someone who has used ART/IVF services
are a donor-conceived person.
Survey is open until 31 March 2026
Some people like to test with different direct to consumer DNA testing companies because each company has their own database of potential genetic relative matches. Although Ancestry DNA seems to be the biggest and most popular to currently seek matches and information, these are some others that you may want to test with. Each will require you to buy a new test, but there are a couple (GedMatch for example) that allow you to upload your raw results from an existing test.
Alternative DNA Tests
GEDMatch below will allow you to upload raw results from any of the other tests to their database to connect you with matches. They have instructions on how to do this as well as tutorials on how to use GEDMatch and a paid service for more tools.
Ancestry & Genealogy tools
Have you just got your DNA results and are unsure how you are linked to your matches that have appeared?
More information can be gathered by looking at how much DNA you share with someone.
This is measured in centimorgans or CM’s. The chart below shows the centimorgans that can be shared within certain relationships. This could give you clues as to how you are connected to your matches on direct to consumer DNA sites. Usually, in your list of matches there will be the persons username and then the centimorgans you share with that person underneath.
The chart below or DNA calculator tool can help determine what relationship you may have based on the centimorgans you share.
Please note that this is best viewed on a computer or as a desktop site
How to interpret DNA matches
DNA Painter
The DNA Painter website is a range of tools that can help interpret your DNA results, build family trees and understand how you’re connected to genetic relatives.
Need some assistance?
If you’re having trouble understanding your matches, finding links to genetic matches or needing help, there are what’s called “Search Angels”. These are people who may help you to potentially find out who a donor is or may help find information or leads. These are people with great knowledge and expertise in all of the DNA tests, tools above and genealogy. Some have helped many people. There may be other groups on FB for search angels but this is one specific to the donor conceived community.
