FAQs for lesbian singles and couples
We need to use a sperm donor. How do we go about purchasing sperm?
The Idaho Center for Reproductive Medicine works with several sperm banks. Once you have selected an anonymous donor that you are interested in using, frozen samples are shipped to our clinic and stored for future use. We recommend purchasing IUI (intrauterine insemination) samples from the banks.
What is the difference between IUI versus ICI frozen sperm?
ICI frozen sperm has only undergone very limited processing, and still contains proteins and other compounds that would need to be removed prior to use for intrauterine insemination. As a result, further treatment of the shipped sample would be necessary in our lab immediate prior to use of the sample for insemination. During the processing of an ICI sperm sample, it is common to have decreased counts compared to the pre-processed sample. IUI frozen sperm has been completely processed at the sperm bank and does not require further treatment in our labs.
What if we know someone who wants to be a sperm donor?
We are happy to help you work with a known sperm donor, however the process requires more time than working with an anonymous donor. Prior to using a known donor, the donor will need to complete a personal/family medical history, have an FDA-required physical exam, possibly have genetic testing, undergo FDA-required testing for communicable diseases, and have a formal semen analysis to make sure that their counts are sufficient for use for insemination. Samples are then kept in quarantine for a 6 month period, after which the known sperm donor is required to undergo repeat communicable disease testing prior to release of the sperm sample.
What is the difference between intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) involves placing a prepared sperm sample in the uterus using a small catheter. IUI is typically one of the initial steps for fertility treatment in women with functioning fallopian tubes. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a more complicated process but typically has substantially higher success rates. For more information on IVF, please follow the link to our IVF information page.
Who should we contact if we have more questions?
Lesbian couples who desire a biologic connection to their children may choose to use one partner’s egg fertilized with donor sperm, and then transfer the embryo to their uterus for implantation. ICRM has done many cycles such as this. To find out more about this process, contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians.
My partner wants to provide the eggs, and I want to carry the pregnancy. How would that process work?
Lesbian couples who desire a biologic connection to their children may choose to use one partner’s egg fertilized with donor sperm, and then transfer the embryo to their uterus for implantation. ICRM has done many cycles such as this. To find out more about this process, contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians.
