When it comes to reproductive technologies, sperm donation is an important part of the process. It is a “restricted” industry, meaning that there are limits to how many times an individual donor can donate.
This means that sperm donors are in high demand and are always looking for donors. What are they looking for, exactly? Here are some things to think about.
Most sperm banks have age requirements concerning sperm donation. They could vary depending on the sperm bank. However, most set their limits based on statistical data on age ranging that maximize sperm viability. Most sperm banks tend to stick with a range of 18-39. However, some cap it sooner than 39.
When considering being a sperm donor, no matter which sperm bank you work with, you will enter an evaluation period so they can assess your general health. Generally, most sperm banks require solid general health.
If you pass this part of the screening, you’ll be asked to submit sperm samples so they could also be evaluated. Sperm banks want sperm donors who are as healthy as possible and who have sperm that is of a high quality.
Genetic screenings are a vital part of the process of finding sperm donors because health is a major concern. If there is a genetic predisposition for certain diseases, sperm banks won’t approve the individual to be a donor. Recipients want their children to be as healthy as possible.
Sperm banks screen for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, Tay Sachs disease, thalassemia, and other inherited disorders. If a donor carries a recessive gene for any of the disorders on the list (there are more) they will be disqualified.
Lifestyle is also a factor when it comes to becoming a sperm donor. Sperm banks will interview potential donors, as well as perform background checks. Potential donors are asked to answer questions honestly.
Sperm banks look for information such as alcohol and drug use, whether they smoke, mental health considerations, criminal history, and more. Many of these issues may be cause for exception.
Although mental health history is also a lifestyle consideration, many sperm banks will perform a more comprehensive psychological screening. It’s about more than just assessing general mental health, although that’s part of it.
Psychological screenings also assess if the potential donor is mentally fit enough to be one! This involves understanding the implications and determining if they have the right frame of mind.
The goal of any sperm bank is to attract people who have high quality sperm. Every sperm bank might have its own rules. If you are thinking of becoming a donor, you will have to contact individual sperm banks directly. Here’s a look at our donor page to give you an idea: https://cascadecryobank.com/donors/
Cascade Cryobank, located in Lynnwood Washington, helps you grow your family with quality donor sperm derived from a selective screening process.
