There’s no singular path to becoming a parent. Sperm donors make it possible for many individuals and couples to bring their dream of having a family to life. But what’s involved in finding a sperm donor? How do sperm banks work exactly?
Below, we walk you through the entire process. We outline how to find a sperm donor, the IVF process, and what you need to know so you can take your next step with knowledge and confidence.
Introduction to Sperm Donation
Sperm donation is when sperm is donated by a third-party donor to help individuals or couples conceive through ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology).
In some cases, an individual or couple may not have access to a viable sperm sample. This could be due to medical conditions affecting sperm production, genetic concerns, same-sex partnerships, or single individuals pursuing parenthood.
In these situations, sperm donation provides a safe and effective option. The donor’s sperm is carefully screened, processed, and then used to fertilize an egg—either through intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
In the following sections, we take a closer look at how this process works.
How Does Sperm Donation Work?
The sperm donation process is designed to ensure safety, quality, and success for everyone involved. Potential donors undergo a detailed screening process. This includes medical, genetic, and psychological evaluations. Only a small percentage of applicants are accepted.
Once approved, donors provide sperm samples at a licensed clinic or sperm bank. These samples are tested for infections and overall sperm health, including motility and count.
The sperm is then processed and frozen through cryopreservation. This allows it to be safely stored for months or even years. During a mandatory quarantine period, the donor is also retested to ensure no infections were present at the time of donation. After all tests are cleared, the sperm is approved for use in assisted reproductive treatments.
Sperm Donor Screening Process
Each potential donor undergoes:
- Medical and family history review to identify hereditary or genetic conditions.
- Infectious disease testing for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis.
- Genetic testing to rule out inherited disorders.
- Psychological evaluation to ensure emotional readiness and understanding of the process.
- Physical exam and semen analysis to confirm health and sperm quality.
Sperm Bank Storage
Once collected, donor sperm is processed and carefully prepared for long-term storage. The sample is first “washed” to separate healthy, motile sperm from other fluids. It’s then mixed with a protective solution and frozen.
Samples are stored in liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperatures (around -196°C). This keeps them viable for many years to come. Additionally, each vial is labelled and tracked under strict identification systems. In turn, this ensures accuracy and confidentiality every step of the way.
Common Reasons to Use a Donor Sperm
There are many personal and medical reasons why individuals or couples may choose to use donor sperm, including:
- Male infertility (This is when a partner has a low sperm count, poor motility, or other fertility challenges that make conception difficult.)
- Genetic concerns (Some may wish to avoid passing on inherited conditions or genetic disorders.)
- Single parents by choice
- Same-sex female couples
- Failed fertility treatments
- Medical treatments (Some individuals or couples may opt for a sperm donor when they’ve undergone chemotherapy or other treatments that affect sperm production.)
Process of Finding a Sperm Donor
Finding a sperm donor begins with choosing a licensed sperm bank or fertility clinic. At TRIO, we guide you through each step. This includes viewing donor profiles and sperm donor selection based on your preferences.
Consideration in Finding the Right Sperm Donor
Selecting a sperm donor is a personal decision. Most sperm bank storage options provide access to detailed donor profiles.
Considerations to keep in mind throughout this process include:
- Health and genetics of you and your desired donor
- Physical characteristics of your family and donor
- Personality and background of your family and your donor
- Anonymity or openness (Donors may be “anonymous” or “open-ID,” meaning children can contact them once they reach adulthood.)
Ultimately, what matters most is choosing the option that feels right for you and aligns with your values and future goals.
Further Considerations & Steps in the Process
Before beginning treatment with donor sperm, there are several important aspects to consider. These involve medical, legal, and emotional factors. So, what else should you know?
After selecting your sperm donor, your fertility team determines the best path to maximize your success.
Assisted Reproductive Technology Options
Once you’ve selected donor sperm, the next step is determining which fertility treatment is best for you. Two of the most common options include:
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is a relatively simple and minimally invasive procedure. The donor sperm sample is first “washed” in the lab to concentrate the healthiest, most motile sperm.
During the procedure, the prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus using a thin catheter, usually around the time of ovulation. This gives the sperm a shorter distance to travel and increases the chance of fertilization.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In IVF, multiple eggs are retrieved from the ovaries after controlled stimulation. These eggs are then fertilized with the donor sperm in a laboratory to create embryos.
The best quality embryo is transferred into the uterus, and any remaining viable embryos can be frozen for future use.
Your fertility team will recommend the best option for you and your circumstances.
Legal Aspects
In Canada, it’s illegal to pay for sperm donation, though reasonable expenses may be reimbursed. Recipients typically sign consent forms outlining rights and responsibilities.
However, legal parenthood rests with the person or couple receiving the donation, not the donor. Consulting a fertility lawyer can help clarify these details and ensure all documentation is complete. Our team at TRIO can also walk you through this process and provide referrals to legal counsel.
Counselling
Ultimately, counselling can help you become emotionally ready for this process. You have the opportunity to explore your associated feelings and expectations. You may also learn how to share this information with your future children.
Timeline from Beginning to a Successful Pregnancy
On average, the entire process—from screening and donor selection to insemination—can take several months.
Fertility treatments, including IUI or IVF, are timed with ovulation to improve success rates. While some conceive in the first cycle, others may need multiple attempts. However, many families achieve pregnancy within six to twelve months of beginning the donor sperm journey.
Take the First Step Toward Finding a Sperm Donor
At TRIO, we’re here to support you through every step of this journey. Finding the right sperm donor takes time and careful thought. But with the right support, this process becomes much easier.
If you’re ready to explore your options, our TRIO Care Navigators are here to answer all of your questions. Talk to a Care Navigator today to begin your journey.
