Sperm Donor Checklist
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Sperm Donor Checklist
1. Health and Medical History:
- Genetic Screening: Has the donor undergone genetic testing for hereditary diseases?
- Medical Conditions: Does the donor have any known medical conditions or a history of major illnesses or surgeries?
- Family Medical History: Are there any genetic diseases or health issues that run in the donor's family?
- Lifestyle Factors: Does the donor smoke, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs?
2. Physical Characteristics:
- Appearance: What are the donor's physical attributes (e.g., height, weight, eye color, hair color)?
- Blood Type: What is the donor's blood type, and is it compatible with yours?
3. Personal and Social Background:
- Education: What is the donor's educational background?
- Occupation: What does the donor do for a living?
- Interests and Hobbies: What are the donor's interests and hobbies?
- Personality: Has the donor completed a personality test, and what are the results?
4. Fertility and Semen Quality:
- Sperm Count: What is the donor's sperm count and motility?
- Previous Success: Has the donor successfully helped others conceive?
5. Legal and Ethical Considerations:
- Legal Agreements: Are there legal agreements in place regarding parental rights and responsibilities?
- Anonymity: Is the donor anonymous or willing to be known to the child in the future?
- Ethical Considerations: Are there any ethical concerns you need to address?
6. Communication and Compatibility:
- Communication: How open and communicative is the donor about their background and intentions?
- Compatibility: Do you feel comfortable and compatible with the donor's values and lifestyle?
7. Support and Resources:
- Support Networks: Does the donor have a support network or resources available for any potential issues?
- Counseling: Have you both considered counseling to discuss expectations and responsibilities?
By addressing these points, you can make a more informed and confident decision when selecting a sperm donor. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it's always a good idea to consult with a fertility specialist or counselor.
These are just a few things to consider. Make your own list, and know what is negotiable and non-negotiable for you in advance. This is too big a deal to do on the fly; you don’t want to agree to something in the heat of the moment that you can’t live with. And don’t take anything for granted. What is obvious to you may be the furthest thing from your donor’s experience and vice versa – so talk about everything!