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Exploring Parenthood: How Do Lesbian Couples Have a Baby?

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:41:47 GMT

In today's world, family dynamics are diverse and beautiful. Many lesbian couples, like all individuals, have the desire to start a family and experience the joys of parenthood. However, the path to parenthood may involve some unique considerations and choices. One of the most popular and accessible methods for lesbians couples to conceive is with the help of a sperm donor. At Born Donor Bank, many of our private customers are lesbian couples, and luckily there are several options available for same sex couples who want to start a family. Read on to learn more about them.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) - What is it?

IUI is the most straightforward procedure and often the cheapest option as well. It involves inseminating the woman who will carry the baby with donor sperm. The carefully prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus. This procedure is performed at a fertility clinic and has a higher success rate than natural insemination.

IUI treatments are recommended for women with no known fertility issues, and there is a good chance that this simple type of fertility treatment will work. However, sometimes a more invasive fertility treatment may be necessary to conceive.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) - What is it?

In vitro fertilisation is a more complex and expensive method, but it also offers higher success rates. IVF involves the extraction of eggs from the ovaries, which are then fertilised with donor sperm in a laboratory. This will hopefully develop into embryos which are then implanted into the uterus. If the IUI treatment has not been successful, then IVF treatment is usually the next step.

Reciprocal IVF - What is it?

This method allows both partners in a lesbian couple to be physically involved in the conception of their baby. One partner provides the egg, which is then fertilised in a lab with donor sperm. The resulting embryo is then implanted in the other partner, who carries the pregnancy. This way, one mom is genetically connected to the baby, and the other gets to carry, give birth to, and breastfeed the child. It’s important to note that not all countries allow this type of treatment.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) - What is it?

ICSI is an ART treatment procedure similar to IVF. However, in ICSI, the embryologist directly injects one sperm into the egg. In IVF, several sperm are placed near one egg for the fertilisation to happen. ICSI can be the next step for you if IVF fertilisation fails.

Things to Consider Before Your Fertility Treatment

If you are part of a lesbian couple, there are some things you and your partner need to consider before embarking on your journey to become parents. In the following, we list two important things you and your partner need to decide on before starting your fertility treatment.

Which Sperm Donor Would You Like to Use to Get Pregnant?

Before your fertility treatment can start, you will need to buy donor sperm from a sperm bank and have it sent to your fertility clinic. When choosing your sperm donor, you need to decide whether you want your future child to have the opportunity to be given information about the donor's identity later in life. If you choose an ID release donor (open donor), your child has the option to receive information about the donor's identity when she or he turns 18 or reaches legal age in your country of residence. If you choose a no ID release donor (closed), your child cannot be given any information about the donor's identity.
At Born Donor Bank, we spend a lot of time getting to know all our donors which means that you can find a lot of information about them in their donor profiles. Most of them even include pictures of the donors as children, staff impressions, fun facts, and quotes.

Feeling curious? You can browse through our wide range of donor profiles for free or read our previous blog post that might help you pick the right donor: How to Choose a Sperm Donor: Key Things to Consider .

Who Will Carry the Pregnancy?

Before you start your fertility treatment you also need to agree on who will carry the pregnancy. Maybe it seems like an easy choice because one of you has a stronger desire to become pregnant and experience childbirth than the other? However, your decision should consider your health status as well. Therefore, you might want to consult your doctor for an evaluation and advice on the best option.

Other Great Options for Lesbian Couples to Start a Family

There are other alternatives to donor sperm and fertility treatments for lesbian couples. You could opt for co-parenting, adoption, or foster parenting instead.

Co-Parenting and Adoption

Some lesbian couples choose to co-parent with a male friend or a same sex male couple who also dreams of having a child and wants to participate in the child's upbringing. This arrangement can be informal or legally structured, depending on your preferences. It can be an amazing option for same-sex couples, but it can be a bit complicated from a legal and practical standpoint.

If you dream of having your baby but don't want to go through a pregnancy, you could also opt for adoption which allows you to provide a home to a child in need. Adoption is in many cases a win-win situation; you get to raise a child, and a child gets an amazing family.

Foster Parenting

Foster parenting can be another great path to parenthood for lesbian couples. By providing a temporary home for children in the foster care system, you get the chance to make a positive impact on a child's life.

Remember: Love Makes a Family

The future of same-sex parenting is exciting and promising. Technological advancements in fertility solutions and reproductive medicine have opened up a world of possibilities and science continues to push boundaries and redefine possibilities. No matter which path you choose to parenthood, the most important aspect is the love and care you provide to your child. We believe that parenthood is about creating a nurturing and supportive environment where a child can grow and thrive, irrespective of biological ties.

In conclusion, lesbian couples have a variety of options available to start a family, and there is no one right answer to what the right way to have a baby is. Which option you choose will depend on you and your partner’s wishes, your individual circumstances, and your medical situations. Whether you choose IUI, IVF, ICSI, co-parenting, adoption, foster parenting, or a combination of these methods, what matters most is the love and commitment that you bring to raising your child. Parenthood is a beautiful journey, and everyone deserves the chance to experience it.

How to Buy Donor Sperm

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 06:38:33 GMT

It may feel a bit overwhelming to buy donor sperm for the first time, but did you know that you can easily order it online with just a few clicks of the mouse? If you're considering starting a family with the help of donor sperm but aren't quite sure how to go about it, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll walk you through step by step how to purchase donor sperm on this website so that you are best prepared to make important decisions and place your order with peace of mind.

Step 1. Pick a Donor Category

First and foremost, you need to decide whether you want to give your child the opportunity to contact their donor as an adult. At Born, we offer two different donor categories:

ID-release: An ID-release donor consents to allow your child to submit a contact request to Born when they reach the age of 18. It's important to note that only the child can request contact, and the donor is not obligated to accept these contact requests.
No ID-release: A no ID-release donor cannot be contacted once the child turns 18.

Choosing a donor category is a significant decision for both you and your future child. Therefore, it's essential to thoroughly research these two options and understand the legal and ethical considerations associated with them before deciding. You can learn more about open and closed donations here and hopefully gain a better understanding of what is the right choice for you and your family.
Please note that in certain countries, there are specific rules regarding the release of a donor's identity. Therefore, we recommend consulting your fertility clinic before selecting a donor category. You are also very welcome to reach out to us for further information and guidance.

Step 2. Find a Sperm Donor

Now it's time to explore our many different donor profiles. We understand that this decision requires a lot of consideration for most people. Therefore, we recommend starting on our search page (link), where you can narrow down your search by selecting the criteria that are important to you.

We spend a lot of time getting to know all our donors very well so that we can create a personalised donor profile for each of them, including details about their physical attributes, appearance, educational background, medical history, interests, and a handwritten letter from the donor. Some even have baby pictures of the donor. All this information is designed to help you make the decision that best suits you and your family.

If you could use some guidance and a few tips for your choice, you can read more in our blog post "Choosing a Sperm Donor: Important Considerations", where we discuss, among other things, what the donor's blood type and CMV status mean for you.
Good luck choosing your favourite!

Find more information about how we chose our donors here .

Step 3. Place your Order on the chosen Donor Sperm

Once you've decided on your donor, the next step is to order the donor sperm. You can easily, safely, and discreetly order it online on our website. However, before you do so, we always recommend consulting with your fertility clinic to ensure you know which type of sperm you need and how many sperm units you should use. Typically, one sperm unit should be sufficient per treatment, but multiple treatments may be necessary before achieving pregnancy. Your fertility clinic can advise you on your individual chances of getting pregnant.
When placing your order, you can either purchase the sperm units for immediate shipment or choose to store the purchased sperm units with us for future use. Our most popular donors sell out quickly, so if you are considering having more children and want them to be genetic siblings, we recommend buying extra sperm units right away. If you don't end up needing all the stored units, we offer the option to buy back the units that are kept in our storage.
Once you have added your selected sperm units to your cart, entered your delivery and payment information, and placed your order, it's a good idea to contact your fertility clinic and inform them that your sperm units are now on their way to them.

Step 4. We Ship your Order

From our sperm bank in Denmark we ship donor sperm to clinics worldwide, and we always do our best to ensure that it arrives safely and on time. Once you have placed your order, we dispatch it as quickly as possible, but we recommend ordering the sperm at least two business days before the desired delivery date. We also offer express shipping for an additional fee.
The donor sperm is delivered in nitrogen tanks to ensure its quality. The units are packaged in a small container inside the nitrogen tank, which is then placed in a shipping box. When ordering, you can choose from three tank sizes depending on how many days the sperm needs to remain frozen.
Once your units are safely on their way from us, it will soon be time for treatment at your fertility clinic, but please remember that we are still here for you if you have any questions along the way.
We keep our fingers crossed for you and wish you the best of luck on your journey to becoming a parent.

Denmark Proposes Doubling Public Fertility Treatment Attempts

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 08:11:22 GMT

More and more people are struggling with fertility issues, and now, every 8th Danish child has been conceived through artificial insemination, compared to every 10 ^th child four years ago, according to the Danish newspaper, Jyllands-Posten.

In Denmark the government is now taking action to support the involuntarily childless and combat the declining birth rate.

More Free Attempts at Public Fertility Clinics

The Danish government has proposed to offer twice the number of attempts at achieving pregnancy through free public fertility treatment – going from three to six cost free attempts.

The initiative comes in response to the declining birth rate in Denmark, along with women having their first child at an older age. Doubling the number of attempts would significantly increase the chances for women and couples dealing with infertility, and it marks an important step forward in ensuring that every dream of parenthood can be realised.

A Promising Future if You’re Struggling with Infertility

At Born Donor Bank, we celebrate this proposal and look forward with optimism. The field of reproductive medicine is evolving rapidly, offering new possibilities and improved success rates.

We believe that expanding access to free of charge fertility treatments is not just a policy change; it's a shift in societal perspectives and helps reduce the stigma surrounding infertility.

This proposal represents a pivotal moment in our commitment to making parenthood dreams come true for all. We hope that it will be passed as soon as possible, and that other countries will follow this example set in Denmark.

Every individual and couple struggling with infertility deserve the chance to become parents.

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Sperm Donation

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 06:24:23 GMT

Sperm donation can be a life-changing opportunity and may be the only chance to have a child for many couples and individuals struggling with fertility. In this article, we dive into five aspects of donor sperm that might surprise you. Whether you're contemplating sperm donation, considering using a sperm donor, or simply curious about the topic, continue reading to gain a better grasp of what sperm donation means for many different people aspiring to become parents.

1. An Estimated 1 in 6 People Globally are Affected by Infertility

A significant number of couples have trouble conceiving, and in approximately 40% of the cases, it is linked to challenges with male fertility. Fertility treatment with donor sperm can be a be a possible solution to the problem in instances of male infertility or if you are a carrier of a genetic disorder. Due to the significant decline in our sperm quality, fertility treatments, and in some cases, sperm donation, enable many couples and individuals to become parents and have their biggest wish fulfilled - to start a family.

2. Everyone Has the Right to Fertility Treatment, Regardless of Sexuality

In Denmark, it is also possible for lesbian women and transgender individuals to have a child through assisted reproduction. Sperm banks enhances the opportunities for LGBTQ2+ individuals to become parents and establish a family life, regardless of gender and sexuality, thus promoting reproductive equality. Previously, it was possible to receive donor sperm for home insemination, but this option has been legally closed in Denmark. Now, a healthcare professional or fertility clinic must always be involved to ensure compliance with the limit on pregnancies per sperm donor and to report to the health authorities in case of any complications.

3. Sperm Donors Must Undergo Thorough Medical and Genetic Testing

All men between the ages of 18 to 45 can apply to become a sperm donor, and while the sperm donor process might seem relatively straightforward for the applicant, there are more steps involved than one might initially think. As a potential sperm donor, you need to fill out an application form and attend a personal interview. If you proceed to the next stage of the application process, you will undergo several different examinations where your current health status will be assessed as well as questions regarding your medical history will be covered. You will need to provide blood, semen, and urine samples, which will be tested for infectious and hereditary diseases. To ensure the quality of your sperm, factors such as volume, motility, viability, and abnormalities of the sperm cells will be examined. Lastly, a medical and genetic evaluation will be conducted. The process can take anywhere from 3 weeks to several months, largely depending on the applicant's own motivation.

4. A Sperm Donor Can Assist a Limited Number of Families

A sperm donor can help multiple families worldwide within the framework of national legislation and the regulations enforced by the donor's sperm bank. In countries where a national limit on the number of families a donor can help has not been established, we always set a family limit based on the population size. This limit pertains to the number of families, not the number of children, allowing the possibility of having biological siblings if desired. For instance, our sperm donors help a maximum of 25 or 75 families worldwide.

5. Open and Closed Sperm Donors Exist, but Complete Anonymity Can’t Be Guaranteed

While some individuals prefer using a closed sperm donor without ID release, others opt for an open donor, allowing donor-conceived children to contact the donor once they reach the age of 18 years or legal adulthood—this varies from country to country. It's crucial to thoroughly research these options and understand the legal and ethical considerations associated with each choice before proceeding—both for the sperm donor, the prospective parents, and the donor-conceived child.

However, for closed donors who wish to maintain their anonymity, guarantees of being a completely anonymous donor have become more challenging to uphold in today's context. Legislation has evolved in some countries to grant donor-conceived children access to information about their biological origins, even if the donor is closed. This creates a balance between a sperm donor's option for anonymous donation and the children's right to know their biological heritage.

Discuss Sperm Openly with Friends and Family

By openly and honestly discussing fertility issues and sperm donation, our hope is to contribute to breaking down taboos and providing you with a better understanding of the many opportunities that donor sperm offers to various LGBTQ2+ individuals and couples, heterosexual couples and single women. If you're considering donating sperm or using a sperm donor, remember that we are here to support and guide you. You are always welcome to reach out to us if you have any questions, thoughts, or concerns.

What is CMV (Cytomegalovirus)? And Will it Affect Your Pregnancy or Your Baby?

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 09:15:18 GMT

If you are looking to use donor sperm for fertility treatment, you have probably come across the term CMV status (to be CMV positive or CMV negative) when browsing through our donor profiles. In this blog post, you can learn what CMV is, why CMV status matters for individuals or couples considering donor sperm, and how it may affect you or your baby if you get the virus.

What is CMV (Cytomegalovirus)?

Human cytomegalovirus (HMCV, often known as CMV) is a common virus that can infect people of all ages. CMV can be passed and contracted via bodily fluids - such as kissing or intercourse, and it is not possible to vaccinate against it. Most healthy individuals who become infected with CMV may not experience any noticeable signs and symptoms of CMV at all, as the virus often remains dormant or causes mild flu-like symptoms. However, for people with CMV it remains latent in your body, with little risk of getting reactivated.

What is CMV Status?

A CMV Status can be either positive or negative, and you have probably come across those terms in our donor profiles. We accept both CMV negative and CMV positive sperm donors as long as their test for CMV show that they have no current infection.

CMV Positive: This means the sperm donor has been exposed to CMV and has developed antibodies against the virus. Although the donor did have CMV before, the virus is not active and not likely to be passed on to others.

CMV Negative: This indicates that the sperm donor has not been exposed to CMV or does not have detectable antibodies against the virus.

Why Do We Test Our Donors for CMV?

We screen all our donors for a variety of viruses and genetic disorders, including a check for CMV. While the risk of getting CMV via donor sperm is considered extremely low - and not confirmed – CMV-negative women may prefer sperm from CMV-negative donors because these women are at higher risk of contracting the infection during pregnancy. However, we recommend that you talk to your doctor or fertility specialist to discuss CMV and your own CMV screening before deciding whether to factor this into your donor choice.

CMV Infection During Pregnancy

CMV infections are typically harmless. However, if a woman gets a primary CMV infection - or in rare cases, a reactivation – during a pregnancy, there is the risk of transferring the virus to the foetus. In the majority of cases, if a baby is born with cmv this does not affect the baby’s health. However, complications may arise in very rare cases.

If you are about to choose a sperm donor for fertility treatment and have concerns about CMV, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor for advice and have yourself screened to see if you are a carrier of the CMV virus yourself. If you are CMV positive, you have built up immunity to the virus, reducing the potential risks associated with CMV transmission. However, if you are CMV negative, there is a theorethical slightly higher risk for you to contract the virus or pass it on to your baby if you pick a CMV positive donor.

You can read much more about our extensive screening processes here.

Exploring the Causes of Male Infertility

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 11:29:34 GMT

Exploring the Causes of Male Infertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after a year of regular sexual intercourse. It can affect both men and women and is often diagnosed when pregnancy does not occur despite active attempts.

Infertility is a complex issue that affects both men and women, and when it comes to male infertility, there are various factors that can contribute to difficulties in conceiving. Fortunately, if you have infertility issues, that doesn’t automatically mean that you won’t be able to conceive a child with your partner. There are treatments for male infertility and procedures that can increase the chances of conception, and you can also explore other options, such as donor sperm, to fulfil your dream of starting a family.

In this blog post, we will delve into the most common causes of male infertility and shed some light on fertility problems faced by many of you on your journey to conceive.

What is Male Infertility?

Infertility is caused by problems with your reproductive system that stops you from impregnating a female partner. For partners struggling to become pregnant, there is no clear cut-off point to say when a couple is infertile. However, it is always advisable that you consult and ask your doctor if you have not become pregnant after one year of trying. Male infertility problems can be caused by various biological and environmental factors. Finding the cause means you can better understand your options and chances of conceiving.

5 Common Causes of Male Infertility

1) Abnormal Sperm Production or Function

One of the primary causes for men with infertility issues is abnormal sperm production or function. Oligospermia (low sperm count) and azoospermia (absence of sperm) can result from conditions like varicocele, hormonal problems or imbalances, genetic disorders, testicular trauma, or infections. These factors can disrupt the delicate process of sperm production within the testes. Poor sperm motility [ST1] and abnormal sperm morphology may also hinder the ability of sperm to reach and fertilise an egg.

2) Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones play a critical role in male reproductive health, particularly testosterone. Testosterone is essential for the production and development of healthy sperm cells. Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels, can impair sperm production and quality, leading to infertility. Various factors, including certain medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices, can also contribute to hormonal imbalances and may affect male fertility.

3) Genetic Factors

Genetic factors can also play a role in male infertility. Certain genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome or Y chromosome microdeletions, can cause abnormal development of the reproductive organs or impair the sperm production. Genetic mutations in specific genes involved in sperm production, function, or transport can also contribute to infertility. Additionally, inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or chromosomal abnormalities can affect fertility by disrupting the production or transportation of sperm.

4) Varicocele

Varicocele refers to the enlargement of veins within the scrotum. It is a common cause of male infertility and can impact the production and quality of sperm. Varicoceles can increase testicular temperature, leading to reduced sperm production or impaired sperm function. However, surgical correction of varicoceles may improve fertility outcomes in some cases.

5) Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Certain lifestyle and environmental factors can contribute to male infertility as well. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as in hot tubs or saunas, may affect your sperm production. Additionally, exposure to toxins, chemicals, radiation, and heavy metals in the workplace or the environment can have detrimental effects on your sperm health. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and obesity, can also impact your fertility.

Symptoms of Male Infertility

Male infertility can manifest through various symptoms, although some cases don't exhibit any noticeable signs at all. Symptoms may include difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, reduced sexual desire or libido, abnormal ejaculation, or pain or swelling in the testicles. Additionally, hormonal imbalances can also result in decreased facial or body hair growth. It is important to consult your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis if you are experiencing these kinds of symptoms and infertility is suspected.

Treatment of Male Infertility

The way infertility in men is treated depends on its main causes. Male Infertility may be caused by some aspect of your lifestyle, making a few healthy changes could increase the quality of your sperm. If medication for a medical condition is contributing to your infertility, your doctor might be able to find alternative treatments. Your doctor might also be able to prescribe hormonal treatment or other medications to treat your infertility, and surgical procedures can be performed to repair varicocele if this is the cause of your infertility.

However, if the treatment of your infertility is unsuccessful, assisted reproductive technologies may help you and your partner conceive.

Conclusion

Understanding the symptoms and causes of male infertility is a crucial step toward seeking appropriate medical guidance and exploring potential solutions. If you and your partner are trying to conceive but so far have been unable to get pregnant, it is important that you consult with a fertility specialist who can conduct a comprehensive evaluation and recommend suitable treatment options based on the underlying causes. By doing so it may affect the quality of your sperm and can increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Katrine and Her Husband had a Joint Child Thanks to a Sperm Donor

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:03:16 GMT

Building a family is something most of us dream of, but an increasing number of couples experience challenging fertility issues, making it nearly impossible for them to have their own biological child. Katrine has PCOS, a hormonal disorder, and her husband has low sperm quality, so their odds were not very promising. Nevertheless, they managed to have a daughter together. Here is Katrine's story.

"I am 30 years old, and my husband is older than me. Actually, significantly older. He is 56 years old, and he already has two children from a previous relationship. Therefore, he knew that he had very low sperm quality due to exposure to hazardous pesticides, and also because he is not young anymore. When he had his first two children, they went through a difficult fertility treatment, and he wasn't very eager to go through that again. When we met, I quickly made it clear that I wanted children, and he was probably a bit smitten, so he agreed to it, of course. I couldn't imagine anything else. However, when it came down to it, he struggled a bit to cope with everything. That's when I started thinking that we don't necessarily need to be a traditional family. Fortunately, there are many different ways to be a family nowadays."

Choosing a Sperm Donor

"We decided to use a sperm donor, and when we started the treatment, we quickly realised that it wasn't easy for me to get pregnant either, due to my PCOS. I remember telling my husband that he didn't have to be the biological father as long as he acted as the child's father, I was fine with it.

When it came to choosing a sperm donor, it was really important to me that he resembled my husband in appearance, so our child would have some similarities. That was actually my only requirement. I couldn't really handle reading all the other information about him because we needed to make a quick decision. But I did read about him when I was pregnant and became a bit more curious."

"It's a significant decision to make on behalf of my child.."

Open or Closed Donor?

"I actually gave a lot of thought to whether I wanted to use an open or closed donor because I believe it's a significant decision to make on behalf of my child. Initially, I thought it should definitely be an open donor so that she would have the option to seek him out later in life and see who he is. However, in the end, I chose a closed donor because I didn't want to subject her to the disappointment if she were to reach out to him one day and he didn't want anything to do with her or if he didn't live up to her expectations. I didn't want her to experience that kind of let-down, so I thought it would be better to live with not knowing who he is. Besides, in my opinion, she already has a father."

Should We Tell Our Daughter That She Is Donor-Conveived?

"Our daughter is still so young that she doesn't understand it yet, but I have always told my husband that using a sperm donor should not be a secret. However, I find it incredibly challenging to have that conversation with our social circle and her siblings. My husband knows he needs to tell our two older children, but he struggles to bring himself to do it. It doesn't make it any easier when many people comment on how she resembles my husband or one of her siblings, simply because they don't know. In fact, one of the hardest parts of this journey has been figuring out how open we should be about it and who we should tell, what, when, and how. Our daughter will also need to know when she gets a bit older, so we just have to bite the bullet and tell the older children and everyone else first. Our close family and those we trust already know."

"Constantly feeling like you should make various lifestyle changes.."

Katrine's Advice for You

"If you find yourself in a similar situation and are considering using a sperm donor, make sure to prepare yourself both financially and mentally. It can take a long time. We went through several attempts before I successfully became pregnant. It can be tough to go through, and it can also become quite expensive. Explore your options for treatment and educate yourself on the costs and what you actually need. The financial aspect did scare me a bit. It also takes up a lot of time, often during working hours, like at 11 in the morning. Then there's also the feeling that you can't do much yourself, constantly feeling like you should make various lifestyle changes, but I think you just need to relax and take care of yourself.

I will definitely recommend using a sperm donor to others if they have a strong desire to have a child. It's better than going through years of difficult treatments. It has been fantastic for us to have a child together, and it's amazing that it worked out. In our everyday life, I hardly ever think about my husband not being the biological father of our daughter because he acts so much like a father. He is her father."

Low Sperm Motility & Male Fertility

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 30 May 2023 09:42:29 GMT

If you or your partner are experiencing problems with low sperm quality, you will probably encounter a lot of scientific and technical terms that might leave you confused. Sperm motility could be one of them. Keep reading to learn more about what it is, and how it can impact male fertility and your chances of getting pregnant.

What is Sperm Motility?

Sperm motility describes the movement of sperm. Sperm motility can be:

● Progressive - vigorous or fast forward or in large circles

● Non-progressive - dilatory or minimal in smaller circles

● Immotile sperm - no movement

The Sperm Motility Range

The sperm motility range measures the number of motile sperm per ejaculation. According to the WHO reference, a fertile male's ejaculate should have:

● A total motility (both non-progressive and progressive) of at least 40%

● A progressive motility of at least 32%

Normal Motility of Sperm

A total count of 20 million or more motile sperm per ejaculate is considered normal. Normal motility of sperm means that your sperm can move effectively. Therefore, you have a higher chance of getting your partner pregnant.

Low Sperm Motility & Fertility

If you have low sperm motility, it means most of your sperm are not swimming effectively. This condition is also known as asthenospermia. Low motility can affect fertility because sperm may never reach and fertilise the egg. In many cases, not all sperm moves perfectly, and that is completely normal. But if nearly all your sperm start moving slowly, fertility problems can arise.

Getting Pregnant with Low Motility

Because sperm must swim all the way through the cervix to the fallopian tube to fertilise the egg, progressively motile sperm means higher pregnancy chances. However, sperm motility is only one of the parameters when assessing sperm quality, and low sperm motility does not mean the end of your journey towards having a baby. Getting pregnant is still possible with the help of assisted reproductive technologies because these methods bypass the need for sperm to swim to fertilise the egg. These methods include:

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI is an artificial insemination procedure that involves placing sperm into the uterus. This method reduces the movement necessary for the sperm to reach the egg.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

IVF is the most efficient assisted reproductive technology. The procedure involves the doctors retrieving the egg from the ovary and fertilising it with sperm in the lab. Then, they will transfer the fertilised egg (embryo) back into the uterus.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

ICSI is a procedure that involves injecting one sperm into an egg. ICSI is similar to IVF except that in IVF, several sperm are placed close to one egg and left to fertilise. In ICSI, the embryologist directly injects one sperm into the egg.

Conclusion

Sperm motility can be a crucial element in male factor infertility because it can be hard to get your partner pregnant if your sperm can't effectively move. However, motility is only one of the parameters when assessing sperm quality, and having low sperm motility should not discourage you and your partner from pursuing your dream of having a child.

If you have been unsuccessfully trying to conceive for 12 months or more, don’t be afraid to consult your fertility doctor who can advise you on the next steps and the possibility of using reproductive technologies. Remember, it takes just one healthy sperm to fertilise an egg, and using a sperm donor is also an option.

How to Choose a Sperm Donor: Key Things to Consider

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:32:37 GMT

Maybe you already know that you want to use a sperm donor? It can also be a need that suddenly arises as your treatment progresses. No matter what it is always a good idea to consider your options because selecting a sperm donor can be a big and very personal decision.

Don't worry if you are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices you have to make. The purpose of this article is to answer some of the questions you might have and provide you with useful information and guidance on selecting a sperm donor that hopefully meets all your preferences. Whether you're starting or expanding your family, we're here to help you every step of the way.

Why Find a Sperm Donor in a Sperm Bank?

There are some distinct advantages to using a sperm donor from a sperm bank. The rigorous screening process ensures that the donor is healthy, has good-quality sperm, and has no infectious or genetic diseases. Additionally, using a sperm bank provides a wider range of choices in terms of physical characteristics, education level, and ethnicity.
At Born we also offer tests for gene compatibility allowing you to select a healthy match that increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and a healthy child. Moreover, if you buy sperm through a sperm bank, legislation always ensures that you avoid any legal or financial obligations to the donor. It also protects the donor's privacy, reducing the risk of future legal disputes or emotional entanglements.

What's the Selection Process in our Sperm Bank?

We have a rigorous screening process for sperm donors that meets the highest regulatory standards set by various authorities. Donors undergo a thorough evaluation for criminal records, medical history, infectious diseases, general health, sperm quality, physique, and character to make sure that they are healthy, both mentally and physically.
Only about 5% of our donor applicants pass the final cut to ensure exceptional sperm quality. Ongoing screening and testing are conducted to ensure healthy donors, and we assess for hereditary and infectious diseases. While we cannot completely eliminate the risk of transmitting diseases, we always adhere to high clinical standards to minimise this risk.

Have You Checked the Legislation in Your Country?

Laws and regulations regarding sperm donation vary significantly across countries and jurisdictions. It's important to understand the legal framework in your country before proceeding with the process of selecting a donor.
In some countries, laws are relatively liberal and supportive of assisted reproduction using donor sperm, while in others, laws can be restrictive or even prohibit the use of donor sperm altogether. Some countries allow you to use an ID release donor (open donor), while other countries only allow you to use a no ID release donor (anonymous donor). Legal implications can also arise regarding the rights and responsibilities of the recipient, and any resulting children.

We always advice you to speak to your fertility clinic about the treatment options available in your country. By understanding the legal requirements and implications of using a sperm donor, you can make informed decisions about the process and minimise any potential legal risks.

Does Blood Type Matter When Choosing a Sperm Donor?

Blood type can be a factor to consider when choosing a sperm donor. If you have a negative blood type (e.g. O-, A-, B-, AB-), you may require a sperm donor with a negative blood type to avoid complications during pregnancy, such as hemolytic disease of the newborn. This occurs when the mother's blood type is Rh negative, and the baby's blood type is Rh positive, which can lead to the mother's immune system attacking the baby's red blood cells. If you have a positive blood type (e.g. O+, A+, B+, AB+), you may have more flexibility in choosing a donor with either a positive or negative blood type.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a reproductive specialist to determine whether blood type is a relevant factor in your specific situation and to ensure that any potential risks are adequately addressed.

What is CMV Status?

When you browse through our donor profiles, you will also find the CMV status of the donors. This is a herpes virus in the same family as the viruses behind cold sores, genital herpes, and chickenpox. Most people are infected with CMV at some point in their lives, and it remains latent in the body, where it can become reactivated.

We test our donors for CMV even though CMV infections are usually not dangerous. However, if you get a primary CMV infection - or in rare cases, a reactivation – during pregnancy, there is the risk of transferring the virus to the foetus. In most cases, this does not affect the baby’s health. However, complications may arise in rare cases.

If you are CMV-negative you are at higher risk of contracting the infection when you are pregnant. While the risk of contracting CMV via donor sperm is considered extremely low - and not confirmed – you may prefer sperm from CMV-negative donors if you are CMV-negative yourself. However, we recommend that you talk to your doctor or fertility specialist to discuss CMV and your own CMV screening before deciding whether to factor this into your donor choice.

Should Your Future Child Have the Possibility to Contact the Donor?

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a sperm donor is which type of donor you want: ID release or no ID release. You need to decide whether you want your child to have the opportunity to be given information about the donor's identity later on in life.

If you choose an ID release donor (open donor), your child has the option to receive information about the donor's identity provided by us when she or he turns 18 or reaches legal age for contact in your country. If you choose a no ID release donor (anonymous donor), your child cannot be given any information about the donor's identity.

The choice between an ID release and no ID release sperm donor is complex and very personal, and there can be many different reasons for choosing one or the other type. We recommend that you read more about the difference between the two donor types .

Which Traits are Most Important to You?

Have you thought about the main criteria your sperm donor must fulfil? Generally, donors who have physical characteristics similar to the recipient or their partner are often preferred, such as height, weight, hair, and eye colour. Additionally, higher levels of education, intelligence, and good health are often desirable traits. Ethnicity may also play a role in the selection process, and personality traits, such as being outgoing or introverted, may also be considered. Some recipients even prefer donors with similar hobbies, interests, or occupations. You probably have your own unique set of preferences when it comes to choosing the right sperm donor.

When you are ready to figure out what is really important to you, you can browse through our wide range of donor profiles for free. Hopefully you will find just what you are looking for. We spend a lot of time getting to know all our donors, and you might be surprised by the amount of information you will find in the profiles. Most of them even include pictures of the donors as children, staff impressions, fun facts, and quotes. Good luck picking your favourite.

What is Sperm?

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 09:41:08 GMT

We think it is about time to debunk some common misconceptions about sperm and the male reproductive system. In this blog post, we will go through some of the fascinating facts about this tiny little cell. We will explain what it is, what it is made of, and what its major functions are. You will also learn more about how it is produced, the process of sperm count, and sperm quality.

Understanding how sperm works is important, especially if you are trying to conceive and struggling with sperm quality and male infertility.

What is Sperm Made of?

Sperm is the male reproductive cell. It consists of a head, a midpiece, and a tail.

The head of the sperm contains the nucleus with DNA. The sperm head also contains the necessary enzymes to break through the cell membrane of the egg.
The midpiece holds the mitochondria that produces the energy that gives sperm its ability to move.
The long, whip-like sperm tail works like a propeller that pushes the sperm forward, towards the egg. It contains protein fibres that contract and expand, giving sperm its characteristic movement.

Mature sperm cells measure ~0.05 millimetres and swim at around 3 millimetres per minute. Some of these cells might have two heads or two tails but their function and structure remain constant.

The Difference Between Sperm and Semen

It is quite common to confuse sperm and semen, even though they are not the same thing. Sperm is just one of the components of semen which is a mix of sperm and secretions from the reproductive glands. It contains elements like fructose, ascorbic acid, nitrogen, vitamin B12, and various salts.

Semen is a safe medium where sperm can swim, containing substances that sperm uses as a source of energy. It also neutralises the acidic environment of the vagina, protects the DNA contained in the sperm’s head, and prolongs its life in the female reproductive system.

How is Sperm Produced?

Men that produce regular levels of sperm can create around 2 trillion sperm cells in a lifetime. Now, let’s go through a few steps to understand how sperm is produced.

The testicles produce sperm and then hold it for 72 days for it to mature. A tube called epididymis stores mature sperm until its release from the body. The movement from the epididymis through the vas deferens to the urethra depends on muscle contractions.

Men can produce 100 to 300 million of sperm cells every single day, but to do so, the testicles need to maintain a certain temperature that’s a little bit cooler than the rest of the body. They move closer or further from the body to adjust the temperature and make sure that the sperm production goes swimmingly. Smart, right?

What is Sperm Count?

Sperm count is a measuring method that allows you to know the number of sperm cells in a particular volume. A regular sperm count contains 15 million to 200 million sperm cells per millilitre of semen. The quantity of sperm is important for fertility because so many sperm cells are lost during the journey through the female reproductive system.

However, sperm count, by itself, is not a good measure of fertility. Even men who have issues with fertility often make millions of sperm cells, and that is why a high sperm count does not guarantee fertility, and a low sperm count does not necessarily translate into conceiving issues. Sperm structure and mobility are relevant as well. A semen analysis will cover all these fields. It includes a sperm count and examines the shape and movement of the cells as well.

The Function of Sperm

The main function of sperm is to penetrate and fertilise the egg. However, the journey to the egg is long, complex, and full of obstacles, and most sperm are eliminated along the way. Luckily, it takes only one sperm to fertilise the egg.

Following ejaculation, the sperm must travel all the way from the vagina, through the cervix, into the uterus, and finally into the correct uterine tube to meet the egg. The eggshell is quite hard, and in order to penetrate the egg, the sperm must break down the shell at the site of contact. The sperm does so with enzymes, which it carries in the so-called acrosome - a "hat" on the top of its head.

The fusion of the sperm and the egg creates a small cell called a zygote. This tiny cell divides and grows to the point where it is capable of implanting in the uterus. If the pregnancy is viable, it develops into a foetus and leads to birth.

The Types of Sperm

There are two types of sperm cells that are responsible for determining the sex of your baby. The X sperm is the “female” sperm, while the Y sperm is the “male” sperm.

A sperm containing an X-chromosome fused with an egg that has another X-chromosome creates a girl (XX). A similar egg fertilised by a sperm cell containing a Y-chromosome, originates a boy (XY).

Conclusion

We hope you now have a much clearer understanding of what sperm is. Men produce sperm in their testicles where they mature until ready for release. Their structure gives them everything they need to successfully find and fertilise the egg.

Many people still mistake sperm for semen, but they are not the same thing. Semen is a mixture of sperm and other secretions. It gives sperm energy to move and protects it from the acidity of the vagina.

Sperm count will tell you the number of sperm cells existing in a particular volume. However, it is not always a good measure of fertility by itself. Sperm structure and mobility are important as well.

If you are experiencing problems with conceiving, it is always advisable to have your sperm tested and work with a fertility specialist. Luckily, there are so many treatment options available these days, and using a sperm donor might be one of them.

FAQs About Sperm

Donors for the UK

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 09:30:44 GMT

To be able to order units from our donors the donor needs to be ‘UK compliant’. This UK compatibility varies greatly depending on when you need your order to be sent. The UK has regulations in place that specify that any sperm sample must be at least three months older than the newest blood sample of the donor. We usually take a new blood sample on the donors approximately every third month. In addition, the HFEA requires that you can only choose ID release donors. This means that not all our donors are UK compliant.

We therefore advise you to filter your search for the ID release category. All our ID release donors on the website are marked with a Union Jack flag. Some of these donors will have UK compliant samples available.

If you create a short list of potentially interesting ID release donors, we will gladly assist with checking if they have UK compliant samples already. Most of our ID release donors will have UK compliant samples available in the future, if they don’t have any available at the moment.

If you have found a potential donor on our website already, please contact us before placing the order, and we will check the donor’s UK status right away.

Telling Your Children They are Donor-conceived

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 08:48:54 GMT

How do you in the best way tell your children that they are donor-conceived? Please meet JR Silver who in this blog post will share his experience with using his own children’s book to tell his son of 4 how he was conceived using donor sperm.

“This time last year my oldest (donor sperm conceived) child had just turned 3. Having embraced the option of donor sperm and being transparent about this with close friends and family, we steeled ourselves for the next chapter in this journey: how to start telling our son about his very special origins. My wife and I love to read to our children, so it made sense to have a look on-line and see what suitable books may be available to gently introduce this important yet delicate subject. We ordered a couple of the limited number of books we found and were quite disappointed with the contents. In particular, I saw first-hand how the books, in trying to achieve the admittedly difficult job of being relevant to all who had used sperm donors, were too generic and, as a result, did not tell a story that engaged with my young son.

I am a qualified lawyer and now work in insurance, which is a far cry away from the creative world of producing children’s books. Nevertheless, I have always loved mentoring younger talent in and out of the workplace, coaching tennis in my late teens and always the first adult to slip away from the dinner-table to play with the children. Hence, I thought why not have a go at writing a suitable story myself: so I did, a very personal one, based directly on the genesis of the Silver family, and then read it to my wife and children (we were also blessed with a daughter in the Spring of 2020)

They enjoyed it but something was missing: pictures! I went on to partner with a fantastically talented illustrator, an American lady called Brianna Peterson, who is also a mother to young children. Brianna listened carefully to what I wanted and produced a superb set of colourful vivid images that now decorate the book I am so very proud of. (“Sharing Seeds: a donor sperm story for mummy, daddy and children”)

Sitting down to read the final version of the illustrated book with my wife and children was a very proud moment. This time the pictures helped the words come to life, as our son was instantly drawn in by concepts such as the magical freezer and the men carrying seeds, as well as some images that were unique to him, including characters bearing more than a passing resemblance to his beloved mummy, daddy, pet dog, sister and, of course, himself!

Young children are constantly evolving and are inevitably fickle and I don’t mind admitting that my book, just like many others that our young son has devoured, was read once and then temporarily forgotten about. However, as time has gone on, and less and less with his parents’ prompting, we have heard our son asking to read “daddy’s book”. He has now turned 4 and is full of questions galore, meaning that each time we read the book together, we cover off some repeat and some new territory, including empathy relating to daddy’s poor quality seeds, as well as interest in the wider fertility and pregnancy process (mummy stuffing her face with pizza and ice-cream gets him every time!).

We have probably read the book 10 or 12 times now and we are somewhere in between the stage of introducing some of the key fertility concepts and my son truly grasping that this story is about where he came from. As both our children get older the hope is that this book will sensitively help them in understanding their genesis, how much they were wanted, carefully chosen and nurtured, and ultimately lead to their acceptance and embracing of this modern-day blessing. And, whilst there are no guarantees things will play out in this idealistic way, I like to think that this book will subconsciously aid them on whatever path the journey of life takes them on.

The book is yet to become an international best seller and nor has it been picked up by a publisher or a literary agent! But that is not the point. Instead, what I have inadvertently created is a children’s book that I genuinely believe has its place in today’s increasingly accepting world, lightly introducing to youngsters, whether conceived via donor sperm or otherwise, the diverse origins of some very special children. I have also gone on to become an ambassador and writer for the online fertility magazine IVF Babble, seeking to raise awareness of male infertility and reduce the unmerited stigma associated with this fundamental evolutionary subject (male infertility statistics have risen alarmingly during the last few decades).

There has been feedback, positive plus the occasional criticism, as not every book can appeal to every reader. The main criticism has been that my book is, ironically, not generic or inclusive enough. But that was never my intention, as this first book was deliberately based on the Silver family’s own tale. However, as the “Sharing Seeds” concept started to gain traction, with book sales and my Instagram followers now in the several hundreds (@sharingseedsbooks), I began to turn my attention to gathering some source material for some other “Sharing Seeds” stories.

A second book is now nearly ready to launch: “Sharing Seeds: a donor sperm story for mummy and child”, focusing on a single lady’s journey to becoming a mother. I am aware that an increasing number of fertility patients and sperm bank clients are single mothers, and I have deliberately sought to tell this tale with a broader more inclusive audience in mind, whilst also staying true to my ethos of seeking to tell a traditional, simple story in an engaging and colourful way. To ensure authenticity, I have partnered with several single mothers who have made the conscious decision to start a family via a sperm donor, speaking to them about their experiences and doing my best to incorporate some of their key insights into the book’s content.

And don’t worry if you are again thinking this story is not so relevant to you, especially for those who have experienced different fertility journeys, such as same sex couples using donor sperm. Those are stories that I plan on bringing to life over the next few years, so watch this space!”

Thanks to JR Silver for sharing his experience with us and our readers. We hope you found it just as useful as we did.

Questionnaire Survey: Get To Know Our Donors Even Better

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 09:09:24 GMT

“How do you choose your donors?” This is a frequently asked question that many of our customers ask us. For us, it is very important to have an in-depth knowledge of our donors. Every single one of them is a unique person and we can vouch for each and every one of them. To give you the chance to get to know them even better, we conducted a questionnaire survey among them, in which we asked about everything from their choice of donor category to their attitude to sperm donation to their motivation to become a donor. We look forward to sharing the results with you in this blog post.

Only 3-5% of all applicants are accepted as donors

75% of our donors are ID release donors

We set a worldwide pregnancy limit per donor

Good boys and men with girlfriends, wives, and children of their own

Our donors wish to help others

It is very important to us that we have an in-depth knowledge of our donors, their personality, interests and especially their motivation to be a donor. Therefore, it makes us extra happy that it shines through that the donors we have admitted to our program have the heart in the right place. When asked what it gives them to be a donor, they answer in their own words that it gives them both joy, pride and a great sense of being able to help others. Just look at these quotes:

Our donors also say that it gives them a good feeling that they are actually making a big difference in other people’s lives. There are even donors who find the aspect of potential donor children very exciting and who look forward to being contacted. We think that says it everything about our donors and it is no secret that we are just as proud of them as they are of being a donor.

Our donors are unique

A personal, professional, and present sperm bank – also for our donors

Our donors help fight ignorance and break a taboo

What Does 'Only for Siblings' Mean?

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:30:43 GMT

Our donors give the greatest gift that can be given, and we are incredibly happy that we with the contribution of our donors help both couples and singles have their dream child. Therefore, some of our donors are marked with a tag on the website that says "Only for siblings". We have received some questions about this, which we would like to explain in more detail.

When a donor is marked ‘Only for siblings’, it means that units from this donor can only be purchased by customers who already have a child of or are pregnant with the help of units from this donor.

There can be two reasons why a donor is marked ‘Only for siblings’:

One reason is that the donor has reached the limit for the maximum number of pregnancies / families per donor for a given country,

Or he has reached our internal total limit of maximum 25 or 75 families.

When a customer buys a unit from a given donor, we immediately reserve a pregnancy with that donor on that customer in our system. This is the way we can keep track of the fact that there are not suddenly too many pregnancies with the same donor. However, if the customer does not obtain pregnancy with the purchased units(s), we will remove the reserved pregnancy again, and therefore it is possible that a donor may be reopened after being marked as ‘Only for siblings.’

We hope that this explanation will shed more light on the concept of "Only for siblings". You are very welcome to contact our customer service department at salg@borndonorbank.dk , if you have more questions about the subject.

Do You Need Personal Sperm Storage?

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 08:55:28 GMT

Have you considered storing your sperm for future use?

By having the foresight to store your sperm before it is too late you can secure your future family.

A personal sperm storage account is a simple, accessible, and affordable option if you want to preserve fertility.

Men or couples often choose to store sperm if they are concerned that a medical issue or an injury will leave them infertile.

We recommend personal sperm storage for:

Cancer patients and other patients who are facing treatment that might decrease their fertility. If you are facing the possibility of chemotherapy, radiation, hormone replacement therapy and other medical or surgical procedures that could impact your future fertility.
Vasectomy patients. As a way of keeping your reproductive options open in case you change your mind.
Clients with occupations that put them at a “high risk”. For example, military personnel, police officers, firefighters, high impact athletes, workers in X-ray environments who are in high risk of testicular injury or death.
Transgender clients. Clients who are about to undergo a sex change operation or treatment who want to keep their reproductive options open.
Clients who have difficulty producing a sample on the day of fertility treatment. For example, when timed inseminations or IVF treatments are required, or simply due to scheduling conflicts.
Clients who have a low sperm count or a deteriorating sperm quality. For instance, due to advancing paternal age.

Please contact us with the specifics regarding your situation so that we can assist you choosing a storage plan that is right for you.

You can also have a look at our storage package here .

I’m a Donor Child – A Child of Love

paul.hopkins@medicover.com (Paul Hopkins) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 09:14:45 GMT

Are you curious about what it’s like to grow up as a donor child? Now you can read Emma Grønbæk’s book “Donor child – a child of love” . Here Emma shares her story about being a donor child. Emma is a nurse and during her studies it dawned on her that her and her family’s experiences might benefit others.

My life as a donor child

My name is Emma, I was born in 1996 and I am a donor child. I have a mother and a father and two sisters. Ever since I was a child, I have openly stated that I am the donor child of an anonymous sperm donor. My story is overwhelmingly positive, and it has been met with both acceptance and resistance.

When my parents realised that they needed a sperm donor to have a child, there was only one option back then, an anonymous donor. Today, both them and I are happy that the choice was so simple.

In general, I think there is a lack of knowledge and positive stories about donor children. The media presents a stereotypical picture of what sperm donation is. Maybe it’s not so black and white. My story is not necessarily the golden truth, but it can provide an insight into what it can also be like to be a donor child.

I’m just happy to be me

I have not had an unhappy childhood or fought with identity issues. I’m just happy to be me. I am eternally grateful to the man who helped my parents in their struggle to have a child. I think of him as a nice man who might look like me and who I hope has a good life. But a life that I do not need to be a part of. I hope he feels the same way and that he does not worry if I’m sad about his choice – because I’m not.

With my story, I can hopefully help future parents who are considering having children through sperm donation. But perhaps it can also help sperm donors if they someday reflect on how their help was received. Or other donor children who may have a similar or a very different story than mine.

Get a both personal and professional perspective on sperm donation

In addition to sharing her personal story, Emma has invited leading Danish doctors and psychologists to put her story in perspective by using their knowledge about fertility treatment, donor choice, relationships during treatment and family life.

Read the book as a contribution in the debate about the use of donors and get both a personal and professional insight into being a donor child, childless or parents of a donor child.

www-borndonorbank-il

Exploring Parenthood: How Do Lesbian Couples Have a Baby?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) - What is it?

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) - What is it?

Reciprocal IVF - What is it?

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) - What is it?

Things to Consider Before Your Fertility Treatment

Which Sperm Donor Would You Like to Use to Get Pregnant?

Who Will Carry the Pregnancy?

Other Great Options for Lesbian Couples to Start a Family

Co-Parenting and Adoption

Foster Parenting

Remember: Love Makes a Family

How to Buy Donor Sperm

Step 1. Pick a Donor Category

Step 2. Find a Sperm Donor

Step 3. Place your Order on the chosen Donor Sperm

Step 4. We Ship your Order

Denmark Proposes Doubling Public Fertility Treatment Attempts

More Free Attempts at Public Fertility Clinics

A Promising Future if You’re Struggling with Infertility

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Sperm Donation

1. An Estimated 1 in 6 People Globally are Affected by Infertility ﻿

2. Everyone Has the Right to Fertility Treatment, Regardless of Sexuality

3. Sperm Donors Must Undergo Thorough Medical and Genetic Testing

4. A Sperm Donor Can Assist a Limited Number of Families

5. Open and Closed Sperm Donors Exist, but Complete Anonymity Can’t Be Guaranteed

Discuss Sperm Openly with Friends and Family

What is CMV (Cytomegalovirus)? And Will it Affect Your Pregnancy or Your Baby?

What is CMV (Cytomegalovirus)?

What is CMV Status?

Why Do We Test Our Donors for CMV?

CMV Infection During Pregnancy

Exploring the Causes of Male Infertility

Exploring the Causes of Male Infertility

What is Male Infertility?

5 Common Causes of Male Infertility

1) Abnormal Sperm Production or Function

2) Hormonal Imbalances

3) Genetic Factors

4) Varicocele

5) Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Symptoms of Male Infertility ﻿

Treatment of Male Infertility

Conclusion

Katrine and Her Husband had a Joint Child Thanks to a Sperm Donor

Choosing a Sperm Donor

"It's a significant decision to make on behalf of my child.."

Open or Closed Donor?

Should We Tell Our Daughter That She Is Donor-Conveived?

"Constantly feeling like you should make various lifestyle changes.."

Katrine's Advice for You

Low Sperm Motility & Male Fertility

What is Sperm Motility?

The Sperm Motility Range

Normal Motility of Sperm

Low Sperm Motility & Fertility

Getting Pregnant with Low Motility

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Conclusion

How to Choose a Sperm Donor: Key Things to Consider

Why Find a Sperm Donor in a Sperm Bank?

What's the Selection Process in our Sperm Bank?

Have You Checked the Legislation in Your Country?

Does Blood Type Matter When Choosing a Sperm Donor?

What is CMV Status?

Should Your Future Child Have the Possibility to Contact the Donor?

Which Traits are Most Important to You?

What is Sperm?

What is Sperm Made of?

The Difference Between Sperm and Semen

How is Sperm Produced?

What is Sperm Count?

The Function of Sperm

The Types of Sperm

Conclusion

FAQs About Sperm

Donors for the UK

1. An Estimated 1 in 6 People Globally are Affected by Infertility

Symptoms of Male Infertility