In recent years, donor sperm has become an important option for many individuals and couples facing infertility, single motherhood by choice, or same-sex parenting. Modern sperm banks not only store and distribute donor samples but also maintain strict medical and genetic screening to ensure safety and high success rates. Thanks to advances in reproductive medicine and global logistics, access to donor sperm is now easier and more personalized than ever before.
How the Process Works for Recipients
If a woman or couple is considering using donor sperm, the typical process includes:
- Consultation at a fertility clinic – Doctors assess medical history and recommend the best method (insemination – IUI, or IVF).
- Donor selection – Recipients can choose donors from databases based on physical traits (eye color, hair color, height), blood type, education, or hobbies. Some banks also provide childhood photos or voice recordings.
- Administrative and legal framework – Each country has its own rules. For example, in the Czech Republic, donation is strictly anonymous, while in Denmark, recipients may opt for open donation. Most countries also limit the number of families a single donor can help.
- The procedure – The sperm sample is shipped to the clinic, thawed, and used for insemination or IVF.
International Transport of Samples
Because demand for donor sperm often crosses national borders, logistics play a crucial role. Samples are transported in liquid nitrogen at around –196°C under strict safety protocols.