You’re on your way: the first steps

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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.
A person checking vials in a lab.

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.  
The basics
Minimize
A person checking vials in a lab.

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.  

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
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
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. 

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. 
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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. 

5 - 6 weeks prior to intended date of procedure

4 weeks prior to intended date of procedure

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

1 week prior to intended date of procedure

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.
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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.
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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.
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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.

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.

Common questions

How do I get started?
Do you limit the number of families per donor?
What forms do I need to complete before shipping vials?
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.