The journey to becoming a donor at San Diego Sperm Bank begins with an online application and a semen analysis. Another crucial step is completing a Family Medical History Interview. During this interview, we gather detailed information about your personal and family health history to identify genetic predispositions to certain conditions or diseases. Don’t worry—this isn’t a high-pressure interview and doesn’t need to be done all at once. We’ll provide the paperwork with all the questions and guide you through anything that may be unclear.
To give you a better understanding of what the Health History Interview involves, we spoke with Alan Dowden, an expert and Donor Coordinator at Seattle Sperm Bank.
Hey Alan, why is it necessary for donors to complete a Medical History Interview?
“Similar to blood and tissue donation, our sperm donors undergo FDA-mandated screening for infectious diseases. However, we also need to assess the genetic component. In addition to comprehensive genetic testing, we review your family medical history to minimize the risk of birth defects and genetic disorders in potential offspring.”
What types of questions can donors expect during the Family Medical History Interview?
“At this interview, we will inquire about the health history of your parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. This information should include their ages, any past or present conditions or diseases, treatments received, and any long-term medications. If any family members are deceased, it’s important to know the cause of death.”
Does San Diego Sperm Bank need to speak directly with the donor’s family members or primary care physician?
“While we don’t need to contact your family members or personal physician directly, we suggest that you do so to gather the necessary information.”
What if a donor can’t get all the information right away?
“If you don’t have all the answers immediately, don’t worry. You will have ample time to follow up with your family members. We can also help you with what questions to ask. Our Donor Coordinators and Geneticists are here to assist you.”
Is the information from the Family History Interview shared with the intended parents?
“We share family medical details, but only in a way that does not reveal the identity of any family members. We never ask for or disclose identifying details of your family members. Just as your identity is kept anonymous from the recipients, so is your family’s.”
After completing the Medical History Interview, what comes next in the donor process?
“Following the Family Medical History Interview, the next and final step is the Initial Medical Screening. At this stage, you are qualified to receive compensation for the donations we are able to retain. You don’t need to wait for test results; you can start donating and get paid right away.”
If you have any questions about joining the sperm donor program at San Diego Sperm Bank, feel free to call our Donor Coordinators at (858) 732-8500 or email [email protected].
