Using a sperm donor
There are two optional pathways for using donor sperm. The first, using either clinic-recruited donor sperm (where the sperm donor has been recruited by Melbourne IVF), or recipient-recruited donor sperm (where the recipient woman/ couple has provided their own sperm donor).
Who can receive donor sperm
- Woman in a same sex and gender diverse couple, or
- Single woman, or
- Heterosexual couple with severe male factor infertility (usually total absence of sperm production) or a history of serious genetic or medical disorder.
Treatment options using donor sperm
The recommended treatment will depend on your circumstances, the quality and amount of sperm available for use, and any previous treatments. I will discuss these options with you at your initial appointment:
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI).
- IVF – recommended if IUI treatment has not resulted in pregnancy, where the sperm quality is inadequate for IUI, where there is only a small amount of suitable sperm stored, or otherwise where medically indicated.
All IVF cycles using clinic-recruited donor sperm involve the use of IVF with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
The dedicated Melbourne IVF donor team provides guidance and support throughout the entire process, helping recipients make considered and informed decisions.
Donor Sperm for Single Women
Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Fertile Minds.
I’m Dr. Daniel Lansburg, a fertility specialist at Melbourne IVF.
With advancements in reproductive medicine, more people are turning to donor conception to start a family. Today, I’ll discuss the process of becoming a single parent and what to consider on this exciting yet challenging journey.
– Single women are the largest group using donor sperm in Victoria. Assisted reproductive treatments and donor sperm make it possible to fulfill the dream of parenthood.
Things to Consider:
– Motivations for becoming a single parent.
– Financial readiness for single parenthood.
– Preparing for the emotional challenges involved.
– Having a support network in place.
Fertility Treatments for Single Women:
– Hormone stimulation and medical procedures can impact your body.
– Be prepared to take time off for appointments and recovery.
Emotional Challenges:
– A range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety, is normal.
– Build a strong support system of family, friends, or community resources to help.
Donor Conception Process:
– Consultation with a fertility specialist to determine suitable treatments. Medical history, health assessment, and fertility testing.
– Donor Sperm Testing: Donated sperm is tested for quality and safety.
Donor Selection Options:
– Clinic-Recruited Donor: Melbourne IVF provides a donor database for selection.
– Recipient-Recruited Donor: The recipient finds their own donor.
Treatment Options Using Donor Sperm:
– IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): Sperm is inserted during ovulation.
– IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Recommended in specific cases, such as low sperm quality or failed IUI attempts.
Fertility Preservation:
– Not ready yet? Consider freezing your eggs to preserve fertility.
Legal and Social Aspects:
– In Victoria, donors and recipients must attend counseling to discuss the implications of donor-conceived families.
Embracing single parenthood is an empowering choice. With support and guidance, you can achieve your dream of starting a family.Want to learn more? Talk to the fertility experts. For general enquiries or to book your first appointment, please call us at (03) 9473 4490.