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How to Become a Sperm Donor in Nigeria

Sperm donation is an option for men who want to help individuals and couples struggling with infertility. In Nigeria, the demand for sperm donors is increasing as more people seek assisted reproductive treatments. While the process is not widely discussed, it is legal and available at fertility clinics across the country.

If you are interested in becoming a donor, there are several steps to follow. This article outlines the requirements, procedures, and what to expect during the donation process.

Who Can Become a Sperm Donor?

Not everyone can donate sperm. Fertility clinics have strict criteria to ensure that donors are in good health and have no genetic or infectious diseases. The common requirements include:

Age Range: Most clinics accept donors between 18 and 45 years old. Some may set a lower limit at 35.
Good Health: Donors must be physically fit and free from chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease.
No Genetic Disorders: Family history is assessed to rule out hereditary conditions that could be passed on to offspring.
No STIs or Infectious Diseases: A donor must be tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and other infections.
Sperm Quality: A semen analysis is conducted to check sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). Only samples with healthy sperm are accepted.
Non-Smoker and No Drug Use: Many clinics prefer donors who do not smoke, drink excessively, or use recreational drugs.

Where to Donate Sperm in Nigeria

Sperm donation is done at fertility clinics, reproductive health centers, and sperm banks. Some of the well-known centers include:

Nordica Fertility Centre (Lagos, Abuja, Asaba)
The Bridge Clinic (Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja)
Medical Art Centre (MART) (Lagos)
The Olive Branch Clinic (Lagos)

These clinics follow ethical guidelines to ensure safety and confidentiality.

ALSO READ: Cost of Egg Donation in Nigeria

The Application Process

Becoming a sperm donor involves multiple steps, and each clinic has its own procedures. Here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Inquiry and Screening

Interested donors contact the clinic to express their interest. Some clinics provide forms that ask about medical history, lifestyle, and family background.

2. Medical Examination

A physical examination is conducted by a doctor to assess overall health. Blood tests check for infections, and urine samples may also be required.

3. Semen Analysis

A sample of semen is collected and tested in a laboratory. This determines sperm quality and whether the donor meets the required standards. If the sperm count or motility is low, the donor may be disqualified.

4. Genetic and Psychological Evaluation

Some clinics conduct genetic screening to check for inherited diseases. A psychological assessment may also be done to ensure the donor understands the implications of donation.

5. Consent and Legal Agreements

Once approved, the donor signs legal documents that outline rights, responsibilities, and confidentiality agreements. In Nigeria, sperm donation is usually anonymous, meaning the donor’s identity is not disclosed to recipients.

ALSO READ: Egg Donation for IVF in Nigeria: What You Need to Know

6. Sperm Collection

Donors visit the clinic multiple times to provide semen samples. The sperm is usually frozen and stored for future use. Clinics may request abstinence from ejaculation for 2-5 days before each collection to improve sperm quality.

Compensation and Ethical Considerations

Sperm donation is often done for altruistic reasons, but donors may receive compensation for their time and transport expenses. The amount varies between clinics. Some pay between ₦20,000 and ₦50,000 per donation, while others offer different incentives.

It is important to understand that once sperm is donated, the donor usually has no legal rights or responsibilities over any child born from the donation. Clinics ensure that donors remain anonymous unless the law requires otherwise.

Risks and Things to Consider

Before donating, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

Emotional Impact: Some donors may later wonder about the children born from their sperm, even if they remain anonymous.
Health Risks: The process itself is low-risk, but regular sperm collection may lead to temporary discomfort.
Legal Implications: In Nigeria, sperm donors typically do not have parental rights, but it’s advisable to clarify this with the clinic.

ALSO READ: Best Foods to Increase Sperm Count and Motility

FAQs About Sperm Donation in Nigeria

Can I donate sperm if I have children?

Yes. Having children does not disqualify someone from being a donor, as long as they meet health requirements.

How often can I donate?

This depends on the clinic’s policies. Some allow weekly donations, while others have monthly limits.

Will I know if my sperm is used to conceive a child?

In most cases, sperm donation is anonymous, so donors do not receive information about recipients or resulting children.

Can recipients choose specific donors?

Some clinics allow recipients to select a donor based on physical traits, blood type, or other characteristics. However, identities are not disclosed.