1. Know the Sperm Donor Qualifications
You must meet certain criteria before you can pass the initial qualification to become a sperm donor. Most sperm banks have an age limit. You must be between 18- and 44-years old. You must have no significant illnesses or conditions or a family history of genetic diseases. The majority of sperm banks require that their donors are not adopted because it's often difficult for adoptees to provide full medical information on both sides of the family. You must be willing to make a 6-month commitment and provide a donation in the laboratory 4 to 8 times a month. Some clinics have a minimum height requirement. Many sperm banks also have minimum education requirements.
2. Contact the Sperm Banks
If you meet sperm donor qualifications and would like to donate a specimen, then you'll have to find sperm banks in your area. Most sperm banks require that you live within an hour's drive of the bank. Do your research about the sperm bank before contacting with them, to find out if you're dealing with a reputable one. Certified doctors and other medical professionals should be responsible for the running and operating of the bank, and it should be licensed with the government. When you're sure about the sperm bank's authenticity, contact it to find out if the bank or lab is accepting new donors.
3. The Initial Meeting
Any sperm bank accepting new donors will ask you several questions over the phone to see if you qualify for a meeting. The actual in-person meeting will take quite a bit of time because you'll need to fill out a detailed questionnaire about your family and medical history. You'll also find out more about the bank's rules and procedures. You may even be asked to give an initial semen sample which will be tested for sperm count and how well it freezes.
4. Meeting Number 2
During your second visit, assuming everything meets the banks qualifications during the initial visit, you'll receive a full physical. You'll have blood drawn and you'll likely be asked to provide a urine sample and another semen sample. The bodily fluids will be tested thoroughly for STDs, genetic problems or infectious diseases. When these tests come back negative, you can begin donating regularly. Usually the bank will require that you sign a contract agreeing to the frequency of donations and the payment.
5. The Actual Donation Procedure
When it's time to provide a sperm donation, you'll be sent to a private collection room. In the room, you will find magazines or videos to help with the production and collection of specimens.
