What Could Disqualify a Potential Sperm Donor?
You might be surprised to learn that not every man is qualified to become a sperm donor. Sperm donor programs like the one at the Fertility Center of California (FCC) have donor requirements and pre-donation screening protocols, and not everyone who applies meets these standards. There are a few different factors that could disqualify a potential sperm donor from joining FCC’s donor program, some of which are surprising to those who apply to donate.
Why can’t I become a sperm donor?
- You’ve aged out of the program. Sperm donors need to be between the ages of 18 and 28. We do not accept older sperm donors.
- You have an STD. Having a sexually transmitted disease will disqualify you from sperm donor programs. At FCC, we test potential donors for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis, syphilis, and more before they are allowed to donate.
- You have a genetic condition or other medical concerns. Because donated sperm will carry the genetic qualities of the donor, men who have certain genetic conditions or medical issues do not qualify for sperm donor programs. Examples of these concerns include Tay-Sachs disease and cystic fibrosis. View a full list of FCC’s sperm donor tests.
- You have a low sperm count or no sperm count. During your first appointment at FCC, a semen analysis will be performed. Low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, or no sperm count, also known as azoospermia, will disqualify you as a donor.
- Your recent travel history. Due to Zika virus outbreaks in South American countries and in parts of the United States, we offer free Zika virus testing to all qualifying sperm donors, in partnership with the Male Fertility Specialists. Should a potential donor test positive for the Zika virus, he will be excluded from the program pending future negative test results.
If the above restrictions do not apply and you are interested in becoming a sperm donor with the Fertility Center of California, please begin your initial application today.
To learn more about becoming a sperm donor and what the process is like, we invite you to learn more information on our blog:
