Individuals or couples who desire to conceive a child have the option to expand their family through the process of sperm donation. While the sperm donor is biologically related to the child, he does not hold any legal or social fatherly rights. Although there is a lack of official data regarding the exact number of children born annually as a result of sperm donation and artificial insemination, experts in reproductive health estimate that around 60,000 births occur through this method. In recent times, concerns surrounding the anonymity of sperm donors and the growing demand for artificial insemination have led to shortages and other related challenges.
Screening Process for Sperm Donation
When it comes to sperm donation, certain criteria and procedures must be followed to ensure the health and safety of both the donor and the recipient. Let’s take a closer look at the screening process involved:
An individual who wishes to donate sperm must meet specific requirements. Firstly, they must be of legal age and in good overall health. Providing a comprehensive medical and family history is also essential.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set guidelines that prohibit men with a history of sexual activity with another man within the previous five years from donating sperm. Additionally, the FDA mandates that donors undergo testing within seven days of the donation.
During the screening process, the sperm bank facility rigorously evaluates the donor for various medical conditions, genetic risk factors, and abnormalities. They may also test for exposure to CMV, a common viral infection that remains with a person throughout their life.
Reputable sperm banks often require the donor to undergo a psychological assessment conducted by a qualified mental health professional. This assessment helps ensure that the prospective donor is mentally fit to make this decision.
Furthermore, demonstrating fertility is considered an advantage for potential donors.
The Donation Process
The process of sperm donation varies among different sperm banks, but certain steps are generally followed. These steps ensure the safety and quality of the donated sperm.
Before the actual sperm donation, the staff at the sperm bank will collect urine samples from the donor. These samples are screened for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or syphilis. This initial screening helps to identify any potential health risks associated with the donated sperm.
Once the screening is complete, the donor is provided with a private collection room. This room is equipped with reading materials and DVDs, which can help the donor to relax and facilitate the collection process.
During the collection process, the donor is required to produce a semen sample. The most common method used for collection is masturbation. However, in certain cases, physicians may allow intercourse using a special condom or perform electroejaculation procedures for men with spinal cord injuries.
After the semen sample is collected, it is deposited into sterile plastic containers. These containers ensure the preservation and protection of the sperm until it can be processed and used for insemination.
In some cases, when the donor is unable to produce a semen sample through masturbation or intercourse, a urologist may perform surgical extraction of sperm. This can involve extracting sperm from the testicle or epididymis, which is the duct located behind the testis.
Once the sperm is collected, the sperm bank will carefully harvest and freeze only the fastest-swimming sperm with the best shape. This selection process helps to maximize the chances of successful fertilization during the insemination process.