What makes a good sperm donor?

Donating sperm has a life-altering impact on individuals and families who can't conceive naturally to start or further grow their families. Here at Semovo, we know that giving the gift of life is a rewarding act of kindness carried out by committed and altruistic donors. 

As one of the country's leading sperm banks, we ensure all our donors know what's involved in becoming a sperm donor, from the medical screening and analysis to what donors can expect when a child born from their donation turns 18. 

In this blog, we explore five aspects that make a good sperm donor. So, if you have ever thought about donating sperm, we're here to let you know what it takes.

1. Good Physical Health:

Your physical health is at the core of what makes a good sperm donor. Ideal donors are individuals who maintain their overall well-being and a healthy lifestyle, including eating a healthy diet, exercising and either refraining from smoking and consuming alcohol or partaking in moderation. By caring for yourself, you can ensure the sperm you donate is healthy. 

2. Accurate and up-to-date Family Medical History:

Awareness of a donor's family medical history is an absolute must for Semovo. Knowing your genetic background is crucial to identifying potential hereditary conditions or medical issues that might affect your ability to continue with the donation process. 

Donors who invest the time to research their family medical information will help to reduce the chance of a donor-conceived child inheriting a potentially debilitating medical condition, thus contributing to the overall health and safety of the donor-conceived child and the recipients.

3. Commitment to Regular Appointments:

Successful sperm donation requires commitment and regularity. Semovo is realistic in its expectations, acknowledging that the process may require up to 30 donations. Therefore, donors should be willing to make the necessary appointments to fulfil this commitment.

What sets Semovo apart is its flexibility – donors can visit multiple clinics across the UK (Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Wigan and Glasgow). This adaptability caters to donors' preferences, allowing them to choose clinics based on their home or work locations.

The convenience of city centre sites in cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow is ideal for those working in these cities. For many donors, lunch break is a more practical time to donate. Alternatively, donors may find it easier to donate on weekends – we can accommodate this, too, at specific sites. 

4. Willingness to Undergo Medical Screening:

Another crucial factor in the Semovo sperm donor selection process is the willingness to undergo medical screening. Screening is essential to identify any medical conditions that could impact the health of the recipient and a donor-conceived child. This ensures that donated sperm is of the highest quality, minimising health risks for all parties involved.

5. Willingness to be identified in the future:

Under current laws, when a donor-conceived child turns 18, they have the legal right to access identifying information about their sperm donor. However, it is important to recognise that sperm donors are not under any legal or financial obligation for children born from their donations.

While not all donor-conceived children may be interested in learning about their donor, some may seek contact. Careful consideration of this possibility is essential, and discussing it with your partner, if applicable, is recommended. A good sperm donor will recognise this possibility and be prepared for it in the future. 

In conclusion, a good Semovo sperm donor prioritises physical health, knows their family medical history, is committed to regular appointments, is willing to undergo medical screening, and understands the potential future implications of having donated sperm. Our donor requirements ensure Semovo remains a trusted and reliable resource for those on the path to parenthood.

If you think you would make a good donor and are considering applying, you should know that by doing so, you could be helping to create life for up to 10 families with your donations. To apply to become a sperm donor, learn about the donation process, and ensure you meet the necessary criteria, contact our friendly team at donate@semovo.co.uk or 0345 266 0020.

Alternatively, you can apply online at www.semovo.co.uk/apply-online