Home Insemination with Donor Sperm

How does home insemination with donor sperm differ from intrauterine insemination? Who should consider this option and how do you do home insemination? We spoke with Corey Burke, the Executive Vice President of Cryos International Sperm & Egg Bank. He answered common questions and walked us through an overview of the process, including discussions about the benefits of home insemination, costs, and other factors to consider.

Listen

Hit the Highlights

What is the difference between intracervical insemination (ICI) home insemination with donor sperm and intrauterine insemination (IUI) in the doctor’s office?
Where does the term “artificial insemination” fit in?
What is the difference in the sperm that is used? Do you have to use unwashed sperm for an ICI? Why must you use washed sperm for an IUI?
Can you get both washed and unwashed donor sperm? Is there a difference in cost?
What are some of the benefits of home insemination: intimacy, privacy, cost, fits better into your schedule, lack of medicalization of a natural process.
What are some disadvantages to home insemination? Diagnosis of infertility, operator error
What are the success rates of intracervical insemination (ICI) compared to intrauterine insemination (IUI)?
Who should consider home insemination with donor sperm?
What is the process for a woman or couple who is considering home insemination?
- Select a donor.
- Determine your ovulatory window.
How do you time shipping to coincide with your ovulation?
How is donor sperm shipped?
How do you thaw donor sperm?
How many straws or vials to buy for one month.
Are there instructions anywhere on how to do a home insemination.