Blood, plasma, and bone marrow are all donations that have an immeasurable impact on someone’s life. Sperm donations are no less, although, it can feel a bit more awkward at first. Sperm donations are regulated the same as other tissue donations by State and Federal agencies. But why should someone choose to become a sperm donor?
Donations are used to help individuals become parents.
Some individuals know that they will need a sperm donor when they decide to become parents, such as an LGBTQ+ family or a single mom by choice. On the other hand, someone may be diagnosed with male factor infertility or undergo medical treatments such as chemo and find they need a sperm donor to complete their family goals. In any case, they are unable to proceed without finding a sperm donor. Using a sperm bank provides the opportunity for people to find someone who can provide a genetic source that will help them build their family. Sperm banks provide a safe place for people to find a donor.
Without the contribution from donors, many people would not be able to experience parenthood.
Donors are compensated per donation.
This means supplementing your income to help save up for vacations, high-priced items, or other financial needs such as rising gas prices. Each qualifying donation can earn $100. Donations can be made up to 3 times per week, allowing flexibility when you have other time constraints and the ability to earn more if needed. Another way to earn a bit extra is through the referral program, allowing an unlimited number of referral bonuses that can be earned.
Additionally, donors receive routine STI testing and physicals. Men visit the doctor less often than women. While in the Bellevue Sperm Bank program you get the chance to stay on top of your health without any extra healthcare costs. All health information will be shared with you and can be sent to your personal health practitioner as well.
All donors receive a free genetic carrier screening.
With new technology, it is easy to find a company that will give you an analysis of your genetics. However, not all commercial products are the same as a medical genetic carrier screening. Commercial genetic screening products often share data and come with a large price tag. Making this technology helpful, but inaccessible.
Donors get a full medical panel with 502 different conditions screened. All results are shared with each donor and Genetic Counselors on staff will help explain all results. This is great personal health information to have. Moreover, results are not shared with any online database or platform and are not searchable.
Currently, there is a national shortage of sperm donors.
Intended parents are having trouble finding enough available donors at all sperm banks and the shortage is having a larger impact on people searching for donors of color. Individuals who are looking for sperm donors can be at a loss as they look for someone who looks like they could be part of their family. All donors of all characteristics and ethnicities are needed to help fulfill the need. Bellevue Sperm Bank is actively looking for men who are between the ages of 18 and 39 years.
The first step in making a difference is applying online and visiting the lab for a semen analysis. Learn more about what the first visit to Bellevue Sperm Bank looks like and how to prepare.
If you think you have what it takes to be part of the donor program or have any questions about becoming a donor you can reach out to our Donor Coordinator at (206)588-1484 or [email protected].
