What is an open identity donor? A new trend is gaining popularity throughout the U.S. and Europe when it comes to choosing a sperm donor for artificial insemination. Whether a single woman or a couple are looking to use a stranger's semen to create new life, the prospect of meeting the donor later in life is an option many are taking advantage of. The following will explain what an open identity donor is, as well as the advantages and drawbacks of choosing an open identity donor from a sperm bank. There are several different names for an open identity donor. They are also called non-anonymous donors, known donors, and ID release donors - all meaning the same thing, namely that the donor has made clear that he intends to have at least one contact with the child once the child has turned 18 years of age. The terms of the initial contact will be facilitated by the sperm bank.
Something to think about
Although you don't get to meet a sperm donor before choosing him, you can learn a lot about him through his profile information. Often donors will list their reasons for donating along with detailed information about themselves. Open identity donors are usually more willing to provide more detailed information such as baby photos and extended profile information to a sperm bank. Despite the possibility that a donor may not want to have any long lasting relationship with the child, the fact that they have chosen to be non-anonymous suggests that they are comfortable with the idea of being contacted later in life. For many parents, it is important to know that their child will know who the person is that has donated genetic material to them. If you feel that there is a chance that your child will be curious about their biological father, it would be a good idea to look into the option of choosing an open identity donor. The child chooses whether he or she wants to contact the donor, but there is no way for the donor to contact any children - customers' identities are confidential and not ever released to sperm donors. Even though an open identity donor has stated his intent of future contact with the child, it is not certain that he wishes to engage in a long lasting relationship. Open identity donors have committed to at least one contact with the child, and if they wish, donor and offspring can arrange to have further communication. All donors have been through a maturity evaluation by the sperm bank's medical director which means they are aware of the decision they are making.
Choosing a donor
Whether you choose an open identity donor or not, it is important to know what you are getting into and that as in most things in life, there is no guarantee that a donor will have the same exact wishes as you and your child. To help you with your decision sperm banks offer extensive information on each donor, ranging from the results of each donor's personality test to the staffs' impressions of the donors.
To learn more about European Sperm Bank USA and view a list of sperm donors visit the sperm bank.
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