Lesbian Single Women and Couples have two unique sperm donor options.
What is a Known Sperm Donor?
Choosing a known sperm donor is a striking option to many women. One, it is generally less expensive than using a sperm bank. Two, it is a more personal journey and can provides the opportunity for the child to participate in the donor’s life.
Unfortunately, it is these two specific potentials that can also make choosing a sperm donor challenging. The laws fluctuate widely from state to state concerning the lawful parental rights of sperm donors.
If you choose a known sperm donor it is vital that you acquaint yourself with the laws in your state and access the guidance of an attorney accustomed with reproductive legal concerns.
This not only reduces the risk of a custody fight or a donor being alleged financially accountable for the child but protects you as well.
It is vital in choosing a known sperm donor to have the donor comprehensively screened for infectious diseases, hereditary background and any chromosomal irregularities just as would be employed at a sperm bank. Most doctors will endorse that your donor's sperm is examined before you decide on using it.
When do I Use an Anonymous Sperm Donation?
When choosing to use a sperm bank, also called anonymous sperm donation, it ensures that the donor has no parental privileges to the child. The simplicity of this from the beginning provides immediate assurance on your journey.
Conversely, it can add up financially in purchasing sperm from a sperm bank (up to $600 a vial, with the probability of needing more than one vial). It can also prohibit the timeline in conceiving with frozen semen as compared to fresh semen.
Many women deem the process of choosing a sperm donor overwhelming considering the number of options accessible and scale of the assessment. Sperm banks are now offering an option for “identity release” which provides the legal protection but allows the child to discover the father’s identity once they reach the age of eighteen.
Questions to Ask Yourselves When Considering a Sperm Donor
- Do you have someone in your sights?
- Have you discussed it with him? What was his reaction?
- How important is to you that your child have a relationship with the donor?
- Do you have any financial limitations?
For more information, see our Sperm Donation section.