Donor Sperm
Types of donors
- Known sperm donor – the identity of the donor is known to the person undergoing the treatment. Typically, the donor is a family member or friend with an already existing relationship with the recipient.
- Clinic-recruited or unknown sperm donor – the identity of the donor is unknown to the person undergoing the treatment. The donation is also done on a voluntary basis.
Who can become a sperm donor?
People of all backgrounds and life pathways are welcome to become sperm donors, provided they meet the following criteria:
- Between 18-45 years of age (21-45 in Victoria)
- In good health with no history of hereditary disease. If the donor suffers from an illness, disease or inherited condition that can be passed to the child conceived from their sperm, they will not be accepted.
- Low risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and HIV/AIDS
- Ability to offer a family medical history
- If married or in a de facto relationship, the partner must consent to the donation
- Clinic-recruited donors must have a permanent address and be contactable for follow-up tests. Donors must provide three types of identification such as a driver’s licence, photo ID and passport in addition to proof of their permanent address.
- A lifestyle declaration must be signed
- Clinic-recruited donors holding student, working holiday or temporary working visas will be unaccepted. Donors with temporary resident visas may be accepted to the program, provided they meet the above criteria.
Quarantine period for clinic-recruited sperm
A six-month quarantine period is obligatory for all clinic-recruited sperm. After the quarantine period ends, all donors are screened again for the following:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Syphilis
- HTLV 1+2
- CMV
- Gonorrhoea
- Chlamydia
Who requires donated sperm?
Couples and individuals may need donated sperm for various reasons, including:
- Heterosexual couples unable to conceive naturally based on male factor infertility
- Single people
- Same sex couples
Treatment options when using donor sperm
There are two treatment options to select from when using donor sperm. To learn more about each treatment type, click on the options below:
The process of receiving donated sperm
- Medical consultation – You (and your partner, if applicable) will attend an initial consultation where you will be educated on the relevant medical procedures involved in your treatment plan and have your personal medical details examined.
- Pathology collection – Routine screening tests are a prerequisite to beginning treatment (this applies to both you and your partner, if applicable). The results of these tests will be sent directly to Dr Ernst.
- Counselling – It is compulsory for you (and your partner, if applicable,) to attend a counselling session. This session will provide you the opportunity to ask any questions and raise concerns in relation to the process. A cooling off period of a minimum of 14 days is granted, prior to commencing treatment.
- Patient education presentation – Prior to commencing your treatment, you will be required to attend a patient education presentation. This presentation may be self-directed or organised by the clinic’s fertility nurses. You will be offered information regarding your treatment cycle, medications and their side effects, and any day-to-day requirements. You will be given consent forms for completion and signing before your treatment commences.
- Final review – Prior to beginning your treatment, a final review of the counselling reports, blood tests and consent forms will be performed to certify that all is in order.
- Treatment – It is strongly suggested you adopt a healthy lifestyle before and throughout your treatment. A balanced diet, frequent exercise and limited alcohol consumption are advised. Prior to treatment, you will be required to quit smoking and restrict alcohol consumption.
- Legal implication – All couples/individuals are encouraged to seek independent legal advice.