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Starting a family can be pricey, especially if you're using IUI, IVF, or donor gametes, so it helps to plan as much as possible. Donor sperm is an option for all kinds of families, from same-sex couples and those pursuing parenthood on their own, to individuals facing infertility. But how much does donor sperm cost? We’re breaking it all down, plus what else you should know about the process of making your parenthood dream a reality.
The cost of donor sperm: What to know
The cost of donor sperm can vary widely. The sperm bank you choose and whether the donor is anonymous or not may affect the price. The good news is that California Cryobank provides a streamlined pricing structure, with pricing of either $1,195 or $2,195 per vials. They have also recently introduced a new offering, their Donor Reserve Program, granting families greater exclusivity to a select collection of their donors. Choose either a donor whose California Cryobank vials would only be available to your family or one whose California Cryobank vials are only available to a more limited number of families.
Factors you may want to consider
Keep in mind — there are other things that can impact the overall cost of using donor sperm, including the type of fertility treatment you choose and how many vials you need.
“The number of cycles people go through before achieving pregnancy with donor sperm can vary widely depending on individual circumstances, including factors such as age, overall health, fertility issues, the specific fertility treatment used (IUI or IVF), and the quality of the donor sperm,” says Mike Large, VP of Donor Gametes at California Cryobank.
Type of sperm
Donor sperm is available in two forms: washed or unwashed. And it can be prepared for different types of insemination: in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), intracervical insemination (ICI), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
“The key difference between washed and unwashed sperm lies in processing,” says Large. Washed sperm is typically used for fertility treatments like IUI, as it undergoes a cleaning process to remove the seminal fluids and isolate the healthy, motile sperm (aka the best swimmers)."
Think of unwashed sperm as “ready-to-go,” making them less expensive because they bypass the washing process.
Choosing a donor
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When choosing a sperm donor, you have a vast array of characteristics to select from, from physical attributes and education to blood type, ancestry, and donor type. Since 2018, all new California Cryobank donors must consent to being ID Disclosure Donors, which means they have agreed to release certain identifying information to any donor conceived individual upon their request once they turn 18. This information may include: donor's full name, donation location and last known address or email. With more than 400 donors currently available to choose from, California Cryobank is proud to share that more than 75% of their current catalog are ID Disclosure donors.
Shipping and storage fees
Sperm banks often have promotions or sales, and many offer discounts for purchasing multiple vials.
At California Cryobank, you get one year of free storage if you buy four or more vials. Buy eight or more, and you get three years of storage at no cost.
“So whether you are ready to grow your family now or still need some time, once you find your donor, you can utilize either our Family Today and Family Tomorrow® program to give you some peace of mind,” says Large.
Sperm bank reputation
Large recommends choosing a reputable sperm bank. “While initial costs may vary between sperm banks, reputable banks may also have higher pregnancy success rates and better quality control, potentially reducing the need for additional cycles.” Large adds, “sperm banks like California Cryobank don’t just stop at providing sperm. Becoming a California Cryobank family also means additional long-term services and benefits as your child and family grow.”
What about financial assistance programs?
While sperm banks themselves may not offer direct financial assistance programs, there are organizations that offer grants and financial aid to help cover the high costs of fertility treatments, including those involving donor sperm.
To help manage the financial aspects of using donor sperm, California Cryobank recommends exploring programs like CAPEXMD and Future Family, both of which offer flexible payment options and competitive rates.
Additionally, California Cryobank offers a few financial programs. If you purchase multiple vials and end up with unused ones, Vial Buyback offers you 50% of the original price. Their Vial Exchange Program allows you to switch donors if you aren’t 100% confident with your original choice. Both programs only apply to unshipped vials.
How to manage donor sperm costs
Start by setting a realistic budget. Consider how much you can afford and how much you’re willing to stretch financially. Once you've set your budget, stick to it!
If you haven’t already, contact a financial advisor or a fertility specialist knowledgeable about fertility expenses. Your healthcare provider may also have helpful recommendations.
Finally, do your own research. Comparing different sperm banks and exploring all your options may lead you to more cost-effective choices.
It’s also a good idea to explore any financial assistance programs or payment plans. You might be surprised at the resources available to help you grow your family.
Large says California Cryobank has occasional promotions, sales, and giveaways. Visit their website and use promo code RESCRIPT24 to get a FREE 90-day donor info subscription ($145 value)!
Resources for you
Some states have laws requiring insurance companies to cover some or offer to cover some infertility treatments. For more information, check out RESOLVE, an infertility patient advocacy and information organization.
“Some local community groups, nonprofits, religious organizations, or charities may provide financial assistance or grants to individuals or couples undergoing fertility treatments,” says Large.
Using donor sperm comes with lots of decisions. So, we encourage you to take your time, do your research, and ask all the questions to figure out the costs and make a plan that works for you.
Blair Sharp is a freelance writer who lives in Minnesota with her husband and son. Her words have been published in various publications, including Parents, SheKnows, The Bump, and Insider. Find her writing daily on LinkedIn and check out her weekly newsletter, Hey Freelancer! Head to her website www.blairsharp.com for more.