--- title: "Your guide to choosing and using donor sperm | California Cryobank®" canonical_url: "https://www.cryobank.com/getting-started" last_updated: "2026-08-05T22:20:01.899Z" locale: en-US meta: description: "Start your family-building journey with California Cryobank. Learn how to select a sperm donor and purchase, complete forms, and plan your first steps to parenthood." "og:description": "Start your family-building journey with California Cryobank. Learn how to select a sperm donor and purchase, complete forms, and plan your first steps to parenthood." "og:title": "Your guide to choosing and using donor sperm | California Cryobank®" "twitter:description": "Start your family-building journey with California Cryobank. Learn how to select a sperm donor and purchase, complete forms, and plan your first steps to parenthood." "twitter:title": "Your guide to choosing and using donor sperm | California Cryobank®" --- The California Cryobank you know just got better. To access your existing account, reset your password and use code COMMA for FREE 90-day Full Access subscription to our donor portfolio. # You’re on your way: the first steps [Register now](https://www.cryobank.com/registration "navigate to the register page.") ![Legs shown of a baby and parent walking. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/YzXlSOzVPSrWJfRyVdIm0/97d0893c30de6ffbf3dcf9932be18afb/GetStarted_Hero_D.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ## Get informed — then get going Not sure where to start? Then you’re in the right place. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to using donor sperm. - - - 1. ![A person interacting with a medical professional. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4SkZMuVOwlV9RZfM7prfN4/9a0d5593a4e81298b5db38582e97daa6/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed_1-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Getting ready for the journey aheadFirst, we recommend you talk to your clinician about your pregnancy plans. Give us a call if you need help finding one who specializes in reproductive medicine. It’s also important to discuss with your physician (and partner, if applicable) how many children you plan to have and if you’re interested in genetic testing. These decisions will help you determine insemination timing, suitable donors, and the number of vials to purchase. [Get in touch](https://www.cryobank.com/about/contact-us "Get in touch with someone from our team.") 2. ![A male near the ocean enjoying the view. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4owunsUGs9XeHKvBKfLUve/0d4f2c7847eb88e4b8ab04d31c71aad2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed2-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### The donorsNext, rest assured you've made the right choice with California Cryobank. We have one of the largest and most diverse selections of donors from a variety of backgrounds; some are students, while others are professionals. But they all share a common excellence. In fact, less than 1% of applicants will make it into our donor portfolio due to our high standards and program requirements, based on screening requirements and those who don't move forward in the program. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") 3. ![A couple looking at a laptop together.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/wdxtc6Jrun4uRW5ykwp53/1532d17ee7fd4476f16417f75934b2c2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed3-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### What forms do I need?Before you can order vials, you’ll need to complete a number of forms such as the Personal and Financial Information form and the Purchase and Storage agreement form. All forms can be accessed online from your account. [Log in](https://www.cryobank.com/login "Log in to your user account.") [View forms](https://www.cryobank.com/account/forms-manager "View our forms.") Item 1 of 3 1. ![A person interacting with a medical professional. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4SkZMuVOwlV9RZfM7prfN4/9a0d5593a4e81298b5db38582e97daa6/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed_1-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Getting ready for the journey aheadFirst, we recommend you talk to your clinician about your pregnancy plans. Give us a call if you need help finding one who specializes in reproductive medicine. It’s also important to discuss with your physician (and partner, if applicable) how many children you plan to have and if you’re interested in genetic testing. These decisions will help you determine insemination timing, suitable donors, and the number of vials to purchase. [Get in touch](https://www.cryobank.com/about/contact-us "Get in touch with someone from our team.") 2. ![A male near the ocean enjoying the view. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4owunsUGs9XeHKvBKfLUve/0d4f2c7847eb88e4b8ab04d31c71aad2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed2-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### The donorsNext, rest assured you've made the right choice with California Cryobank. We have one of the largest and most diverse selections of donors from a variety of backgrounds; some are students, while others are professionals. But they all share a common excellence. In fact, less than 1% of applicants will make it into our donor portfolio due to our high standards and program requirements, based on screening requirements and those who don't move forward in the program. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") 3. ![A couple looking at a laptop together.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/wdxtc6Jrun4uRW5ykwp53/1532d17ee7fd4476f16417f75934b2c2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed3-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### What forms do I need?Before you can order vials, you’ll need to complete a number of forms such as the Personal and Financial Information form and the Purchase and Storage agreement form. All forms can be accessed online from your account. [Log in](https://www.cryobank.com/login "Log in to your user account.") [View forms](https://www.cryobank.com/account/forms-manager "View our forms.") Item 1 of 3 ![A person checking vials in a lab. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/iblnaOdVDKziB9UGiFbit/293cf69a29f3e04dea96301159141cbf/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed4-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Giving you what you need to make the best match Everyone has different requirements when it comes to choosing their donor. For some, blood type matters. For others, it’s genetics or physical characteristics. You can be assured that you’ll have all the information you need to make the choice that’s best for you and your family — from the donor’s family medical history and educational background, to their personal essays and conversations, and more. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") 1. ![A child kissing a belly of her pregnant mother.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4vnt1NEMxFuhZB62uVrVtd/5bfb9f96278e5efda70f16856e732e86/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed5-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Looking to the future with California CryobankWe’re here to help you reach your personal goals when it comes to creating and building your family. Whether it's one, two, or five kids in your future – or you just want to better understand your options – our client services team is here every step of the way. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for and the help you need to create your own plan of action. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn "Learn how everything works. ") 2. ![Person holding an infant while a child kisses the infant's forehead.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/7fJ0ftSWbZ5LJCksOCenQ6/b26c10b745b0f476e45391b375c64c95/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed6-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Family Today & Family Tomorrow® program [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management "Learn more about our vial management options.") Item 1 of 2 1. ![A child kissing a belly of her pregnant mother.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4vnt1NEMxFuhZB62uVrVtd/5bfb9f96278e5efda70f16856e732e86/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed5-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Looking to the future with California CryobankWe’re here to help you reach your personal goals when it comes to creating and building your family. Whether it's one, two, or five kids in your future – or you just want to better understand your options – our client services team is here every step of the way. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for and the help you need to create your own plan of action. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn "Learn how everything works. ") 2. ![Person holding an infant while a child kisses the infant's forehead.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/7fJ0ftSWbZ5LJCksOCenQ6/b26c10b745b0f476e45391b375c64c95/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed6-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Family Today & Family Tomorrow® program [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management "Learn more about our vial management options.") Item 1 of 2 The basics Minimize 1. ![A person interacting with a medical professional. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4SkZMuVOwlV9RZfM7prfN4/9a0d5593a4e81298b5db38582e97daa6/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed_1-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Getting ready for the journey aheadFirst, we recommend you talk to your clinician about your pregnancy plans. Give us a call if you need help finding one who specializes in reproductive medicine. It’s also important to discuss with your physician (and partner, if applicable) how many children you plan to have and if you’re interested in genetic testing. These decisions will help you determine insemination timing, suitable donors, and the number of vials to purchase. [Get in touch](https://www.cryobank.com/about/contact-us "Get in touch with someone from our team.") 2. ![A male near the ocean enjoying the view. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4owunsUGs9XeHKvBKfLUve/0d4f2c7847eb88e4b8ab04d31c71aad2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed2-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### The donorsNext, rest assured you've made the right choice with California Cryobank. We have one of the largest and most diverse selections of donors from a variety of backgrounds; some are students, while others are professionals. But they all share a common excellence. In fact, less than 1% of applicants will make it into our donor portfolio due to our high standards and program requirements, based on screening requirements and those who don't move forward in the program. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") 3. ![A couple looking at a laptop together.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/wdxtc6Jrun4uRW5ykwp53/1532d17ee7fd4476f16417f75934b2c2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed3-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### What forms do I need?Before you can order vials, you’ll need to complete a number of forms such as the Personal and Financial Information form and the Purchase and Storage agreement form. All forms can be accessed online from your account. [Log in](https://www.cryobank.com/login "Log in to your user account.") [View forms](https://www.cryobank.com/account/forms-manager "View our forms.") Item 1 of 3 1. ![A person interacting with a medical professional. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4SkZMuVOwlV9RZfM7prfN4/9a0d5593a4e81298b5db38582e97daa6/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed_1-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Getting ready for the journey aheadFirst, we recommend you talk to your clinician about your pregnancy plans. Give us a call if you need help finding one who specializes in reproductive medicine. It’s also important to discuss with your physician (and partner, if applicable) how many children you plan to have and if you’re interested in genetic testing. These decisions will help you determine insemination timing, suitable donors, and the number of vials to purchase. [Get in touch](https://www.cryobank.com/about/contact-us "Get in touch with someone from our team.") 2. ![A male near the ocean enjoying the view. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4owunsUGs9XeHKvBKfLUve/0d4f2c7847eb88e4b8ab04d31c71aad2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed2-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### The donorsNext, rest assured you've made the right choice with California Cryobank. We have one of the largest and most diverse selections of donors from a variety of backgrounds; some are students, while others are professionals. But they all share a common excellence. In fact, less than 1% of applicants will make it into our donor portfolio due to our high standards and program requirements, based on screening requirements and those who don't move forward in the program. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") 3. ![A couple looking at a laptop together.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/wdxtc6Jrun4uRW5ykwp53/1532d17ee7fd4476f16417f75934b2c2/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed3-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### What forms do I need?Before you can order vials, you’ll need to complete a number of forms such as the Personal and Financial Information form and the Purchase and Storage agreement form. All forms can be accessed online from your account. [Log in](https://www.cryobank.com/login "Log in to your user account.") [View forms](https://www.cryobank.com/account/forms-manager "View our forms.") Item 1 of 3 Choosing your donor Expand ![A person checking vials in a lab. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/iblnaOdVDKziB9UGiFbit/293cf69a29f3e04dea96301159141cbf/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed4-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Giving you what you need to make the best match Everyone has different requirements when it comes to choosing their donor. For some, blood type matters. For others, it’s genetics or physical characteristics. You can be assured that you’ll have all the information you need to make the choice that’s best for you and your family — from the donor’s family medical history and educational background, to their personal essays and conversations, and more. [Search donors](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Search through our donor catalog.") Expanding your family in the future Expand 1. ![A child kissing a belly of her pregnant mother.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4vnt1NEMxFuhZB62uVrVtd/5bfb9f96278e5efda70f16856e732e86/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed5-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Looking to the future with California CryobankWe’re here to help you reach your personal goals when it comes to creating and building your family. Whether it's one, two, or five kids in your future – or you just want to better understand your options – our client services team is here every step of the way. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for and the help you need to create your own plan of action. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn "Learn how everything works. ") 2. ![Person holding an infant while a child kisses the infant's forehead.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/7fJ0ftSWbZ5LJCksOCenQ6/b26c10b745b0f476e45391b375c64c95/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed6-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Family Today & Family Tomorrow® program [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management "Learn more about our vial management options.") Item 1 of 2 1. ![A child kissing a belly of her pregnant mother.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4vnt1NEMxFuhZB62uVrVtd/5bfb9f96278e5efda70f16856e732e86/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed5-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Looking to the future with California CryobankWe’re here to help you reach your personal goals when it comes to creating and building your family. Whether it's one, two, or five kids in your future – or you just want to better understand your options – our client services team is here every step of the way. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for and the help you need to create your own plan of action. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn "Learn how everything works. ") 2. ![Person holding an infant while a child kisses the infant's forehead.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/7fJ0ftSWbZ5LJCksOCenQ6/b26c10b745b0f476e45391b375c64c95/Cryobank-GetStarted_GetInformed6-1000x560-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Family Today & Family Tomorrow® program [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management "Learn more about our vial management options.") Item 1 of 2 ## Finding the right sperm donor for you We’ve made sure the process of finding your donor is as streamlined as possible. Here are just a few suggestions to help you along the way. ### Tips and quick links Explore donors [donor search](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Click to visit the donor search page.") Key considerations Donor availability If you find a donor with "Please Call" listed under his availability, this means he has fewer than 5 vials available and we will need to check our inventory to confirm we have the number of vials you need. Just reach out to our client services team and we'll confirm we have enough available vials to meet your needs. Purchase and storage [Family Today & Family Tomorrow®](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management#storage "Learn about our Family Today & Family Tomorrow program") Place your order You’ve done it. You’ve chosen your donor sperm, amazing! Keep in mind that you’ll need to have the proper combination of forms completed and submitted to purchase and store vials. In addition, you will not be able to schedule shipping without one of our signed shipment authorization forms. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management#placing-your-order "Learn more about the forms you need to place your order. ") ## Start your donor search Building your family with donor sperm is a rewarding and life-changing decision. With a wide range of profiles from which to choose, we encourage you to take your time, reach out with questions, and ultimately, find the right donor who meets your needs. Take the first step today and start your journey of creating the family of your dreams. [Find a donor](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Find a donor in our catalog.") ![page divider](https://www.cryobank.com/_nuxt/desktop.B39ZGuUo.webp) ## Planning your journey Having a plan can help keep things on track. Here’s our suggested timeline that encompasses a few of the steps to take before using donor sperm, from opening an account to placing your order. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn/planning-your-journey "Review our suggestions for considerations along your journey.") ### 5 - 6 weeks prior to intended date of procedure [open an account](https://www.cryobank.com/registration "Create a web user account.") ### 4 weeks prior to intended date of procedure [Extended donor profiles](https://assets.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/6Ub84jxdQH5fmCtR9LpbW3/cf86c79b9a3198a3e206fd478e6c0a34/extendedprofilesample.pdf) [Donor personal essays](https://assets.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/55ZtKCSp31j9leEooHv0Ss/2c889c53e7590a5958a464f1f7dab6a0/essaysample.pdf) [Childhood photo(s)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4AzW4FT0S9Amx9lCsV5Nc/52f60049c7e761fbbcfef07ecb9573e6/childhoodphotosample.pdf) [Genetic test summary](https://assets.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/340dRpeLnTNnvRGiUqZCMP/ced47159a7ad8401f8478e464c40c6f7/genetictestsummarysample.pdf) ### 3 weeks prior to intended date of procedure Contact our client services team for your one-on-one consultation. This will be a great time for you to ask any questions you may have about timing your order properly with your insemination or IVF procedure. ### 2 weeks prior to intended date of procedure [View forms](https://www.cryobank.com/account/forms-manager "View our forms.") ### 1 week prior to intended date of procedure [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/learn/planning-your-journey "Review our suggestions for considerations along your journey.") ## Discover all the benefits of your account Once you’ve signed up for a free account, you’ll be able to easily search the hundreds of highly qualified donors in our donor portfolio. Every account gives you access to donors' photos, medical profiles, carrier screenings, personal details, and more. [Register now](https://www.cryobank.com/registration "navigate to the register page.") [Subscription options](https://www.cryobank.com/getting-started/account-onboarding "View our account upgrade options.") ![Child in a green costume.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/7nP113EoOFitctHCpJXh3A/67a6f500d66bc007f53e3fd8687516b7/Cryobank-GetStarted_Discoverallthebenefitsofyouraccount1-400x320-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Childhood photos As you search for your potential donor, you’ll get a glimpse into their early years and see what they looked like between the ages of 6 months and 12 years. Donors typically have one to three childhood photos available. ![A man seated on a couch smiling, reading a book.](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/4tc7cFhEbn5a0AunSWeeH0/2c70ea8e60e55b51897b8839506e6621/Cryobank-GetStarted_Discoverallthebenefitsofyouraccount2-400x320-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Extended donor profile The extended donor profile gives you the opportunity to get to know more about each donor. That includes even more information about his education (even SAT scores when available), his hobbies, which sports he prefers, and fun facts like what makes him laugh. ![Two females seated on a couch looking at a laptop. One female is reaching to pet a cute dog. ](https://images.ctfassets.net/ytwgku1qckp5/5WFjOgllfveP38lWONeZ52/90304990618345ee843ddfcc00f1d1d6/Cryobank-GetStarted_Discoverallthebenefitsofyouraccount3-400x320-9-18-24.webp?w=900&fm=webp&q=80) ### Donor personal essays Get a little deeper into your potential donor’s experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Each donor essay gives you a glimpse into a more introspective side of the donor, to go beyond just their medical records and statistics. ## Making the most informed match ### Sperm banking 101 The sperm bank you choose is one of the most important decisions you can make and may play a role in the success of your pregnancy. When you choose California Cryobank, you can depend on a legacy of helping to create and grow families since 1977. Discover the difference our extensive experience and expertise can make to you on your personal journey to parenthood. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/getting-started/sperm-banking-101 "Learn about sperm banking basics. ") ### Clinical and donor considerations We want you to have all the information you need to make the right decision when it comes to which clinic and which donor is right for you. From finding the right physical characteristics, to discussing the results of genetic testing, to shipping and storing logistics, we’re here for you. Our personalized communication can help you make sure you have everything you need to make the right choice for your family. [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/getting-started/medical-genetic-considerations "Learn more about medical and genetic considerations when choosing your donor.") ## Common questions [See all FAQs](https://www.cryobank.com/learn/frequently-asked-questions "Read through our full list of FAQs.") ### How do I get started? [Get started](https://www.cryobank.com/www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Start searching for an available donor.") Do you limit the number of families per donor? [Donor Reserve program](https://www.cryobank.com/services/donor-reserve "Visit our donor reserve page. ") What forms do I need to complete before shipping vials? [account dashboard](https://www.cryobank.com/account "click to visit the account dashboard ") [Learn more](https://www.cryobank.com/services/vial-management#placing-your-order "Learn more about the forms you need to place your order. ") How are the sperm vials packaged and shipped? We send the vials in liquid nitrogen dry shipper tanks via FedEx or a local courier. Tanks are validated for 7 days from the date shipped. Can I cancel or change my vial order? Once vials are purchased, you have an option to do a vial exchange or a 50% vial buyback. Vial orders may only be eligible for a full refund within 30 days of purchase for medical reasons and an order cancellation fee would apply. A letter from a medical professional is also required for refund consideration. Shipped vials are not eligible for an exchange, buyback, or transfer to another family. Please review our vial exchange program and vial buyback offer for applicable fees and program terms. ## Your future family starts at California Cryobank With hundreds of donors to choose from — all highly qualified and thoroughly screened — we’re here to provide the donor that’s the right fit for your family. [Find a donor](https://www.cryobank.com/donor-search "Find a donor in our catalog.") ## Be a part of our family Want to learn more? Subscribe to see how California Cryobank can support your family building dreams."