There are many reasons that you may be considering sperm or egg donation. Patients considering egg donation may have failed multiple previous embryo transfers using their own eggs, or have poor ovarian reserve due to age or medical history. Patients considering a sperm donor typically have male partner who has very poor or no sperm, or previous IVF cycles with poor fertilization of eggs and poor embryo development. Other populations using sperm or egg donors include those in same sex relationships and single men or women who desire a family. If you are contemplating using a sperm or egg donation to conceive, learn more about the differences between anonymous and known donors below.
What is an Anonymous Donor?
When utilizing a sperm or egg donor for conception, you may opt for an anonymous donor. Both sperm and egg donors are screened based on guidelines set by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine). This means the donors are subject to thorough history-taking and physical examinations. Individuals are also screened for additional health conditions, such as sexually transmitted diseases or genetic disorders like Tay-Sachs disease and cystic fibrosis. Anonymous egg donation is typically coordinated by your fertility specialist using their own egg donors, or donors from an agency. Anonymous sperm donation is coordinated by one of multiple sperm banks and patients may make a selection for their desired donor online and have the sperm shipped to the fertility clinic of their choice.
Anonymous donation offers patients privacy which is very important to many people. Patients also do not have to worry about any future legal implications from the sperm or egg donor. Concerns with anonymous donation arise from cost (which can be significant) and documenting an accurate family history of the donor.
What is a Known Donor?
You can also opt for a nonanonymous sperm or egg donor. This is called Directed Donation. This may be someone you know who is providing a sperm or egg donation, or someone who has chosen to donate through a third party and will allow you to learn more about them. With directed donation, there is more access to the medical information of the donating party. However, one disadvantage is that couples give up their privacy and may need to seek legal counsel to protect their future family prior to moving forward with treatment. Importantly, you cannot compensate your donor for their eggs or sperm. You may only compensate them for reasonable costs incurred for transportation and the inconvenience of any medical examinations or surgical procedures needed.
Which Option is Best?
Choosing between an anonymous and identified donation is a personal decision. Most couples eventually elect for anonymous donation but directed donation may work for you if you have a willing friend or family member willing to assist you with your fertility journey. Make sure to speak with our fertility specialists about the differences between these options to determine the best choice for your particular situation. The FDA monitors all entities involved in sperm and egg donation (fertility clinics, sperm banks and egg banks). So rest assured that this is a safe and highly regulated process designed to protect you, the patient, and to ensure that you have the healthy family you desire.