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A guide to get you going

Your family is unique. Which is why we offer more than one way to help make your dreams of parenthood come true — as seamlessly and stress-free as possible. Here, you can discover everything you need to know about vial options, insemination choices and procedures, donor types, and more. And, of course, if you’re not sure which options are right for you, our experts are always here to help answer questions you (or your healthcare provider) may have.

The best option for every plan

When it comes to vial types and insemination, you have options. No matter how you’re planning to build your family, we’re here to help, with a variety of vial types — all from rigorously screened and qualified sperm donors. The path you and your healthcare professional choose for your family will inform the number and the type of vials you need.  

ICI

IUI

IVF

ICSI

ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) uses a single live sperm that is carefully injected in the middle of an egg (which has been collected from the ovary). This creates an embryo, which is then placed in the uterus. The ICSI procedure is used only in a lab setting, with IVF.

Sperm quality and standards

Insemination and procedure options
Minimize

ICI

IUI

IVF

ICSI

ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) uses a single live sperm that is carefully injected in the middle of an egg (which has been collected from the ovary). This creates an embryo, which is then placed in the uterus. The ICSI procedure is used only in a lab setting, with IVF.

Sperm quality and standards

Understanding donor disclosure levels

Choosing your donor disclosure type is a personal decision based on the unique needs of your family. At California Cryobank, we offer three different donor types: anonymous, open, and ID disclosure — the choice is always yours. Be sure to check each donor’s country availability, as certain disclosure types may not be available for sale in your country.

ID disclosure donors

Open Donors

An open donor has accepted the commitment to a minimum of one communication with any donor-conceived individuals, once they turn 18, at the donor-conceived individuals’ request. We will help to make that connection.

Anonymous donors

An anonymous donor may be open to communication or connection, but, as was the norm at the time, this option was not included in his agreement when he first became a donor. Once a donor-conceived child turns 18 and decides to try to learn more about their donor, we can help try to facilitate that request. Since 2018, all new donors are required to be ID disclosure donors. 

Questions? We’ve got answers.

Our experts answer some of the most common questions families have before getting started.

How do I get started?
Which vial type do I need? 
All vial types can be used for any insemination or procedure method. However, the volume (amount) of sperm within each vial varies by vial type (ICI, IUI, IVF, ICSI), so it’s important to purchase the appropriate number of vials for your insemination or procedure method.   
Do you limit the number of families per donor?
Do you offer adulthood photos of donors?
Many of our donors’ profiles include adulthood photographs and can be viewed with a Level 2: Full Access subscription or as an à la carte purchase. Donors’ adulthood photos are displayed as a series of up to three photos, which may include a headshot, a full-body photo and one that demonstrates their personality or style. Adulthood photos are limited to those donors who choose to provide them and may not be requested for any donor.  
Can I perform the insemination at home?

The power of community

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Webinars

Explore webinars and get a deeper look into what we do, how we do it, and how your family can benefit from partnering with California Cryobank.
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Community

Follow us on Instagram for exciting news, personal family stories, and great resources for anyone who has used a sperm donor to help their family grow.
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Additional Resources

Get access to the downloadable forms, brochures, and tools you need to confidently make informed choices.
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Start your family at home

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.

Still have questions?

Each moment in this process matters. We’re here to walk you through it all — from the biggest “what ifs'' to the smallest “but hows.”

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Discover more resources

Check out our valuable resources to help you learn more about using donor sperm for your family building.