How Many Families Can Use the Same Sperm Donor? - 4 min read
Short answer: There is no single nationwide U.S. limit on how many families may use the same sperm donor. Sperm banks and clinic donor programs set their own policies, and those policies may count families, reported pregnancies, or births differently. Before choosing a donor, ask for the program's written family-limit policy and how it tracks use in the United States and abroad. Why is there…
read moreWhat Does CMV-Positive Mean When Choosing a Sperm Donor? - 5 min read
Short answer: A CMV-positive sperm donor usually has antibodies showing that he was exposed to cytomegalovirus in the past. It does not automatically mean that he has an active infection or that his sperm cannot be used. The fertility clinic should review whether the result reflects past exposure or active infection, the CMV status of the person who will carry the pregnancy, and the clinic's…
read moreCan You Use a Known Sperm Donor for IUI or IVF? - 6 min read
Short answer: Yes. A friend, relative, or other person you know may be able to provide sperm for IUI or IVF. In U.S. fertility care, this person is usually called a known donor or directed donor. The arrangement should go through a fertility clinic or reproductive-tissue program so the donor can complete required medical screening and infectious-disease testing, and so everyone can address genetic, psychological,…
read moreHow to Choose a Sperm Donor: A Complete Guide for Intended Parents - 4 min read
Last reviewed: August 2026. Choosing a sperm donor is a medical, genetic, legal and personal decision. Intended parents may work with a commercial sperm bank, a fertility-clinic donor program or a known/directed donor. The best choice depends on treatment plans, screening, identity preferences, legal structure, availability and long-term considerations for the donor-conceived child. Sperm Bank, Clinic Program, or Known Donor? Commercial sperm banks recruit, screen,…
read moreOpen Egg & Sperm Donation: Identity, Medical History & Future Contact - 4 min read
Key points Considering open egg or sperm donation can feel like an emotional decision, especially after infertility.It offers key benefits, like genetic information and future connection.Reflect on your child’s future needs when making the decision.Open donation is becoming more common and widely accepted For the purposes of this article, I will focus on open donors—those who are willing to be contacted in the future. Known…
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