IVF with sperm donation an alternative assisted reproductive technique, particularly in cases where male partners encounter severe abnormalities in semen quality or reproductive function. It’s a pivotal method for achieving pregnancy and parenthood when traditional conception methods are challenging or impossible due to male-related infertility factors.

Indications for Sperm Donation

IVF with sperm donation is recommended in scenarios such as:

 Male Infertility Issues: Including azoospermia, oligozoospermia, or ejaculatory dysfunction.

• Genetic Concerns: When male partners carry significant genetic defects that could be inherited.
• Absence of Male Partner: For single women or lesbian couples seeking pregnancy without a male partner.

Step-by-Step Procedure

• Sperm Donor Selection: Donors undergo detailed health screenings and genetic tests, and their profiles are accessible on sperm bank websites for selection.
• Ovarian Stimulation: Medication protocols are adjusted based on health reports, and ovarian development is monitored via vaginal ultrasounds. Egg retrieval is typically done around 36 hours post-trigger shot.
• Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Pick-Up): A sedated procedure lasting 15-20 minutes collects eggs through ultrasound-guided aspiration.
• Fertilization: Collected eggs are fertilized with carefully selected donor sperm using microinjection (ICSI) techniques in a controlled laboratory environment.
• Embryo Development Monitoring: Embryos are cultured for five days, meticulously observed until they reach the blastocyst stage. Selection is based on sperm and egg quality, opting for the best embryos for further development.
• Embryo Transfer: High-quality embryos are transferred into the uterus considering factors like age, health, prior IVF attempts, and embryo quality.
• Pregnancy Confirmation: A blood test, usually 12 days after embryo transfer, confirms the pregnancy.
• Cryopreservation: The additional embryos post-transfer are frozen for potential future use.

The Pathway to Parenthood

IVF with sperm donation serves as a promising solution for couples encountering male infertility issues or for those seeking parenthood without a male partner. It offers a pathway to achieve pregnancy and experience the joys of parenthood through advanced assisted reproductive techniques.