SHOULD I USE PARTNER OR DONOR SPERM FOR INTRAUTERINE INSEMINATION?

Up to 30% of infertility problems are caused by male factors such as obstruction of the vas deferens, ejaculation failure, genetic problems, poor semen quality or hormonal deficiencies. When this is the case, couples who are having difficulty conceiving may be helped by intrauterine insemination using donor sperm.  However the most common reason women use donor sperm is absence of a male partner.

A semen specimen is collected from him, processed to remove impurities and concentrate the sperm into a small volume, and directly placed in the woman’s uterine cavity with a sterile, flexible catheter. Following insemination, the sperm move through the fallopian tubes and find their way to the eggs. IUI is a simple outpatient procedure that is performed with very little discomfort to the patient.

In most cases, partner sperm IUI is feasible, but in others donor sperm may be the only option. Which choice is best depends on the conditions responsible for infertility.

Conditions where donor sperm IUI is recommended include:

• Complete absence of sperm in the partner’s semen or testicles

• Prior vasectomy and the partner does not desire to undergo a sperm aspiration procedure to collect sperm or a vasectomy reversal procedure
• Genetic disorders and the couple desires to avoid passing on the genetic condition (and does not desire to proceed with PGD)
• Absence of a male partner
• Prior cancer therapy with radiation or chemo leading to very low sperm counts or no sperm

The decision to use donor sperm is an important one, which is why we work with our patients to ensure they have explored all available options and are making the best possible choice for their circumstances. A Fertility Specialist will present the numerous options available to a woman/ couple to help make their decision easier.   Most fertility specialist follow ARSM and FDA screening guidelines for sperm donation. By following the recommended guidelines Rocky Mountain Fertility Center can provide the highest pregnancy rates, ensure the use of donor sperm has been well thought out,  and ensure the donor sperm specimens are tested according to the recommended guidelines.

Nationally, at accredited sperm banks sperm donors are rigorously screened for HIV, hepatitis, and other STDs and undergo comprehensive documentation of medical, family and genetic history.

If a donor candidate passes their screening and evaluation at the sperm bank, the semen is frozen, quarantined and repeatedly tested for STDs. Sperm is only released for use if all tests are negative, after at least a 6 month quarantine. Prior to IUI, each specimen is evaluated and processed to prepare it. The recipient’s ovulation may be optimized with fertility medication, and most donor sperm recipients are tested to make sure their tubes are open before the insemination procedure occurs.

At Rocky Mountain Fertility Clinic we are committed to ensuring our patients’ IUI procedures are successful. We offer the best possible results to our patients. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.