Sperm Donation Myths

Erm, no! You can't just pop into a donor bank and make one extremely large deposit!!! Sperm Banks do need to see you a bit more often than that! But donors will get a Free STI check and Fertility test, oh and not to mention a Free Sperm Mug and T-shirt, If you donate at The London Sperm Bank!!

There are many myths surrounding sperm donation, here are just a few of them:

Myth: Sperm Donation Is Easy

Fact: Although it may seem like an easy proposition, the truth is the screening process for sperm donation is rigorous and less than 5% of the men attempting to become a sperm donor are successful. The screening process includes testing for STDs, genetic abnormalities and disease. Sperm must meet specific quality standards regarding sperm count, and both physical and psychological factors are considered. A donor must be over 18, able to provide their family’s health history and be able to commit to the program for up to six months. They must also be in good health.

Myth: Sperm Count Is Constant

Fact: Many men believe their sperm count will be the same every time it is examined. Not so. A man’s sperm count can fluctuate depending on several factors. Illness, medication, and especially the time between ejaculations will have an effect on sperm count. Before making a sperm donation, a man will be requested to refrain from ejaculating for up to three days prior to the appointment.

Myth: Sperm Donation Pays Good Money

Fact: It's a myth! Many people seem to think you can make a fortune but that is simply not true. In the UK, Sperm donation is regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).  Due to this regulation, it is illegal in the UK to pay sperm donors for their donations.  Although there are banks outside of the UK that pay for donations, sperm donors in the UK can only make expense claims for things such as travel and loss of earnings. 

See the following directions for receiving money as a donor according to the human fertilisation and embryology act 1990:

1. Individual donors of gametes may be given money or other benefits for the supply of their gametes, subject to the conditions of these Directions.

2.      In money or money's worth, a donor may be reimbursed reasonable expenses which he or she has incurred, within the UK, in connection with the donation.

3.      Donors may be compensated for loss of earnings (but not for other costs or inconveniences) up to a daily maximum of £55.19 but with an overall limit of £250 (or the equivalent in local currency) for each course of sperm donation or each cycle of egg donation.

Sperm donors must be altruistic first and foremost with a strong desire to help others. Without sperm donation, many couples and single women would have no recourse to starting a family. Sperm donation is a very special gift to people struggling with reproductive issues.