Sperm donation is the use of sperm, which typically comes from 2 sources:
Known Sperm Donor: A known or “directed donor” is usually a family member or a very close friend who is not sexually intimate with the intended parent. The known donor will have to undergo a semen analysis, screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and genetic testing. It is recommended that the sample be quarantined for 6 months and the sperm donor re-tested for STD so as to avoid any potential transmission of infection to the intended parent. A legal contract will have to be drawn up between the sperm donor and the intended parent in which the sperm donor will be giving up all parental rights to the child(ren). It is also recommended that the sperm donor undergo psychological evaluation and counseling.
Anonymous Sperm Donor: Anonymous sperm donors are acquired from sperm banks. The sperm donors are selected according to the criteria the intended parent is seeking. You will have information such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, hobbies, ethnic background, personal medical history as well as family history and education. The sperm donors undergo a thorough evaluation of their personal and family medical history, genetic screening as well as extensive STD screening. The donor is retested for STD 6 months later and if the test results are negative again will the sperm sample from 6 months prior be released. This is due to the fact that it may take 6 months for someone with HIV to test positive and as a result the samples are quarantined for 6 months prior to making them available to the public.
Some of the patients who would benefit from a sperm donor include:
We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have about your fertility treatment. Here at Fertility Institute of San Diego, you will be treated with compassion and care.