Sperm Donation
Who Is Sperm Donation Suitable For?
Sperm donation is a commonly used method in cases where no sperm are present in the semen (azoospermia), meaning there is absolutely no sperm production.
This method is also used when a woman who has never been married wishes to have a child through sperm donation of her own choice.
In another situation, if there is genetic incompatibility between the woman and the man, it is also possible to have a child through sperm donation.
Sperm deficiency may result from febrile illnesses experienced during childhood, most commonly mumps, which can affect both testicles and lead to a condition called orchitis. Individuals who have previously had orchitis or testicular inflammation may experience varying degrees of sperm deficiency later in life.
Varicocele surgery does not provide any benefit in cases of azoospermia or low sperm count. Medication is also ineffective in patients with elevated hormone levels.
In newborn male babies, the testicles may remain in the inguinal canal and fail to descend to their normal position. These undescended testicles may lose their functional capacity if they remain in the abdomen. Therefore, they should be surgically relocated outside the abdomen as soon as possible.
If chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgical procedures used in cancer treatment damage the testicles, sperm donation may be the only remaining option for having children.
Additionally, externally administered muscle-building substances used by athletes — such as testosterone hormones and anabolic steroids — have been shown to cause permanent damage to testicular tissue. These substances, especially when used for prolonged periods and at high doses, must be used with caution.
Certain congenital conditions in male infants may prevent sperm production. For example, Y chromosome microdeletions or the presence of an extra X chromosome, as seen in Klinefelter Syndrome, result in the absence of sperm production in the testes.
Sperm donation is a method available for men whose sperm production has ceased. If there is no possibility of obtaining healthy sperm, or if the sperm obtained are not of sufficient quality for pregnancy, there is currently no alternative treatment available.
In Shia communities and in some Muslim countries, sperm donation has been legalized through religiously sanctioned marriage procedures. Iran and Lebanon are examples.
The Sperm Donation Procedure
Before deciding on sperm donation, several methods are attempted to obtain sperm. The first method is collecting semen through masturbation. Additionally, urologists may obtain seminal fluid through prostate massage, after which sperm cells are searched for under a microscope.
If sperm cannot be obtained through these techniques, surgical methods are considered. These include TESE, micro-TESE, TESA, MESA, and PESA. In our clinic, we have achieved highly successful results using a simpler technique apart from these methods.
Today, stem cell research aimed at producing sperm is still ongoing. Partial success has been achieved in animal studies; however, the desired stage has not yet been reached.
How Is Sperm Donation Performed?
First, couples are informed in detail about sperm donation treatment and donor sperm. The characteristics of donor sperm and the screening tests performed are explained. Before starting the procedure, couples are required to sign a consent form confirming that they accept the donation process and have received all necessary information.
Afterward, the female partner undergoes medical examinations. The subsequent procedures are similar to standard IVF (in vitro fertilization) or insemination treatments. Following medication for egg development, either egg retrieval or ovulation induction with intrauterine insemination is performed.
Sperm donation can be applied in two ways:
1. Insemination with Bank Sperm (IUI)
The statistical pregnancy rate with this method is approximately 20%. In order to perform this procedure, the woman's fallopian tubes must be carefully evaluated. Even if the tubes are open, the presence of adhesions may make pregnancy nearly impossible. Free movement of the tubes is vital for conception.
2. ICSI with Bank Sperm
On the day of egg retrieval, the previously selected bank sperm is thawed and microinjection (ICSI) is performed. The most suitable embryo among the developing embryos is selected. The process then continues as in standard IVF treatment.
Embryos are evaluated based on quality, and 2–3 embryos are transferred into the uterus. Remaining embryos may be frozen and stored.
Sperm Banks
Since the start of this practice in Northern Cyprus (TRNC), we have been working with Cryos Denmark. We also collaborate with Seattle Sperm Bank and the European Sperm Bank. All our patients receive the relevant certificates from Cryos and other banks.
These companies are among the oldest, most reliable, and largest sperm banks in the world. According to TRNC legislation, establishing a sperm bank locally is not permitted. All sperm used are imported from recognized banks with Ministry approval.
Tests Applied to Sperm Donors
Individuals applying to sperm banks undergo screening tests for genetic and sexually transmitted diseases. A psychological evaluation is conducted to determine the donor candidate’s suitability. Physical characteristics of parents, siblings, and extended family members are recorded.
In accordance with the regulations of the country where the bank operates, the necessary procedures are completed.
Screening tests include:
Medical history of siblings, parents, and extended family
Psychological profile
HIV risk assessment and drug use evaluation
HIV
HTLV
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
Syphilis
Gonorrhea
Chlamydia
CMV (Cytomegalovirus)
Cystic fibrosis
Thalassemia
Chromosome testing
After passing these tests, sperm samples are collected, washed, divided into vials, and frozen. Six months after freezing, donors are recalled and infectious disease tests are repeated. If all results remain clear, the sperm samples are made available for use.
Success Rate
Since the sperm used undergo extensive testing, the chance of pregnancy primarily depends on the mother’s age. If factors such as maternal age and egg reserve are favorable, the pregnancy rate is approximately 60%, similar to standard IVF treatment.
For more detailed information, please refer to the link below.