Donor Sperm
In the vast majority of cases, you will be able to conceive successfully via one of the many treatments available at our clinic. However, even with the best techniques and the most experienced doctors, there will still be circumstances that need donor gametes.
In circumstances where you simply cannot provide the sperm required for conception, we are able to offer donor sperm, allowing you to have a child with at least some biological connection.
How it works
The IVF process using donor sperm is very similar to the standard process, except that part of the role is played by a third person.
Donor sperm – in the case of sperm donation, the female partner will undergo the full IVF cycle, including induced ovulation and egg harvesting. The eggs are then fertilised using the donor sperm and the resulting embryos implanted as normal.
Finding a donor – Some couples prefer to find a donor themselves, using a friend or relative, while others prefer the anonymity of a sperm bank. We can offer you the very highest quality, fully screened gametes from either sex, selected from reputable sperm banks that operate comprehensive health checks on their donors.
When you need donor sperm
Donor gametes can be a solution to a number of common fertility problems, including:
Lack of natural sperm production
Reproductive damage or disease
Unexplained failure of other fertility treatments
Donor sperm can also be useful if there are issues with passing on a genetic diseases. Donor sperm is also essential for lesbian couples to conceive.
What you need to know
There are many issues to consider when thinking about using donor sperm. You may doubt whether you will have the same connection to a child that isn’t biologically yours, and wonder how your child will feel if they find out their true origin. Under UK law, all donor conceived children have the right to know their biological parentage when they reach 18.
We offer in-house counselling to help couples to understand and deal with the many issues that come with using donors. This will help you to come to terms with what it means to you and ensure that you are fully comfortable with your decision, both now and in the future.
