Whether you are in a same-sex relationship or are facing fertility problems, looking into the option of sperm donation can be a long and confusing process. After all, the debate between nature and nurture (and how such things affect everything from a child’s chances of future success to personality and temperament) still rages on, and when looking to have a child with the person you love, you will feel very comfortable mixing their genes with yours to create a child that will be very much yours in both nature and nurture.
Should this not be possible, then artificial insemination using a sperm donor is likely to be the most appealing option. However, since the jury is still out on how big a part nature plays in everything from intelligence to behaviour, it may well be important for you to learn everything you can about those offering to donate sperm to you and your partner.
There are other issues to take into account that many people forget when considering sperm donors, and that is the health of the donor. If they carry genes linked to hereditary diseases, then your child’s health may suffer. Furthermore, whilst looks are not everything, you may well feel more comfortable knowing that they are likely to grow up to be healthy, strong and good-looking.
SHOULD YOU MEET SPERM DONORS?
Some couples prefer to use anonymous sperm donors due to the fact that the baby will then feel more their own if the sperm has come from an unknown, faceless donor. However, many people are discovering that meeting a donor will help to put their mind at rest and ensure that, should the child want to know more about their parentage in later life, the person they track down (if they manage to) is going to be a decent person, offering only positive influences.
Furthermore, meeting a sperm donor and finding out more about their traits and health will prepare you for any aspects of ‘nature’ that may creep into a child’s physical make-up or personality. Whilst nurture and environment have a major effect on how a person turns out, intelligent genes still tend to breed intelligent children, and the same can be said for many other traits. As such, for most people, meeting a sperm donor using a dedicated online site will indeed be the best approach, and whether you only ever chat online or later agree to meet, the process will be simple and rewarding in equal measures – just so long as it is done through the right organisation.
BENEFITS FOR DONORS
The benefits for those receiving donations may seem obvious, but what about those donating? What is in it for them to find out more about the couple that will be raising their child?
Well, whilst this approach may take more time it would to just visit a sperm bank, those donating get very similar benefits to those receiving the donation. After all, the child will be partly their legacy too, and many donors want to know that they are going to be helping out a couple who truly deserve such help rather than a couple (or of course, individual) who may not care for or look after their progeny in the best manner. In turn, they get peace of mind too, and can be certain that they are helping the right people to find happiness.
About the Author – Adam Howes is a freelance writer and blogger. He regularly writes articles about fertility and insemination, using websites such as www.prideangel.com to stay up to date with all the latest industry news and developments.