​DONOR-CONCEIVED CHILDREN HEALTH: WHAT ARE SPERM DONORS SCREENED FOR?

How healthy are children born via a sperm donor? In the largest study of its kind to date, new research has shown they’re just as healthy – and with similar wellbeing - as the general population.

The Australian study into the psychosocial development of school-age children born through sperm donation also found that the type of family structure – single parent, same-sex or heterosexual – did not impact on the wellbeing of children.

The research is reassuring news for the increasing numbers of people using donor sperm, and reinforces just why health screening is so important for men who want to donate sperm.

The health regulations applying to men donating sperm to licensed sperm banks in the UK ensure the risk of health issues for donor-conceived children are significantly minimised.

Sperm donor screening: What we test for

When you donate sperm with Semovo you’ll get a thorough health check at the start of the process so we can see if you’re suitable to be a sperm donor.

We perform genetic screening as well as testing for diseases and sexually-transmitted infections, in accordance with the HFEA’s strict screening guidelines.

When you apply to donate sperm with Semovo, you’ll be tested for:

• Cystic Fibrosis
• Karyotype testing to check for chromosome abnormalities
• Blood-related hereditary conditions such as Sickle Cell Anaemia and Tay Sachs
• HIV 1 and 2
• Hepatitis B and C
• HTLV I and II
• Syphilis
• Gonorrhoea
• Chlamydia
• Cytomegalovirus

If you’re accepted as a Semovo sperm donor you’ll be re-screened every six months for specific conditions and STIs, and again before all your samples can be released for patient use.

Sperm donors & existing medical conditions

If you have an existing medical condition, or are on medication, it doesn’t mean you can’t be a sperm donor. We’ll ask you about any existing conditions you have as part of your medical review with one of our doctors. We’ll always seek clarification from your GP as to the nature of your condition and whether it impacts on your ability to donate sperm.

Declaring your health as a sperm donor

When you donate sperm you have to disclose any information relating to your health and not knowingly omit anything. Even if you think it may not be important, it’s vital to be open and truthful as you may be legally liable if you don’t declare anything relevant.

The implications of the health declaration you sign will be carefully explained to you, along with the importance of the consent forms you complete to become sperm donors with us.

Be a sperm donor with Semovo – sperm donation on your terms

Join Semovo and you can donate sperm locally to you through our sperm banks in Manchester, Liverpool or Leeds, with the reassurance of personal support from our professional and friendly team. Learn more about our award-winning approach to sperm donation and why we’re fast becoming the UK’s most popular sperm bank.

See if you meet the sperm donor criteria and apply online to donate sperm or have a chat to our friendly team on 0345 266 1272.