Donor insemination

Donor Insemination

Donor insemination is a medical procedure that involves the introduction of sperm from a donor into a woman's reproductive system to facilitate pregnancy. This technique is often used by individuals or couples who are unable to conceive naturally due to male infertility, absence of a male partner, or genetic concerns.

History

The practice of donor insemination dates back to the late 19th century. The first recorded case was in 1884, when Dr. William Pancoast performed the procedure in Philadelphia. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that donor insemination became more widely accepted and practiced.

Procedure

Donor insemination can be performed using two main techniques:

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination involves placing the donor sperm directly into the uterus using a thin catheter. This method increases the chances of sperm reaching the egg by bypassing the cervix.

Intracervical Insemination (ICI)

Intracervical insemination involves placing the sperm near the cervix. This method is less invasive than IUI but may have lower success rates.

Selection of Donors

Sperm donors are typically selected through sperm banks, which screen donors for medical history, genetic conditions, and infectious diseases. Donors may also be chosen based on physical characteristics, educational background, and other personal attributes.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Donor insemination raises several legal and ethical issues, including the rights of the donor, the recipient, and the resulting child. Laws vary by country and region, with some jurisdictions allowing anonymous donation while others require donor identity disclosure.

Success Rates

The success rate of donor insemination depends on various factors, including the age and fertility of the recipient, the quality of the sperm, and the method used. On average, the success rate per cycle is around 10-20%.

Psychosocial Aspects

Recipients of donor insemination may face psychological and social challenges, such as concerns about disclosure to the child and societal perceptions. Counseling is often recommended to address these issues.

Also see

• Artificial insemination
• In vitro fertilization
• Sperm donation
• Fertility treatment