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Midwest Reproductive Center

Donor Sperm Insemination

An overview of donor sperm insemination

Donor sperm insemination is frequently used in couples in which the male has an extremely low or zero sperm count or in couples with a known genetic disease carried by the male.  We recommend sperm banks that meticulously screen sperm donors for infectious or genetic diseases; samples are quarantined for at least 6 months to ensure the ultimate safety of our patients.  Donor sperm can be used either for insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).  The use of donor sperm is a highly successful alternative for couples dealing with severe male factor infertility.

Prior to starting treatment with donor sperm, you will be referred to a reproductive counselor for counseling about third party reproduction. You and your partner will have blood testing performed, and our consent form will need to be reviewed and signed. Additional tests such as ultrasound or hysterosalpingogram (HSG – a dye test to check tubal patency), may be recommended. We suggest that you complete all of these steps before purchasing donor samples.

Here are some of the sperm bank centers that we often work with:

Once you have chosen a donor, you will need to set up an account with the sperm bank.  You will pay donor semen and shipping fees directly to the donor bank.  We prefer that you order IUI ready or washed specimens, however if the donor does not have such specimens available, you may order ICI or unwashed specimens.  In order to save on shipping and handling fees, we recommend you order two or more specimens at a time.  Many banks will let you purchase several vials and keep them in long-term storage at the sperm bank which will assure donor availability for subsequent cycles (or an additional pregnancy).  Check with your bank: you may be able to refund samples that are not shipped if you later decide not to use additional vials and the bank keeps them in storage for you.  If the samples have been shipped to us, you will not be able to return them.

When you place an order, please call us to let us know what bank and donor you chose and when we should expect your specimens to arrive.