PollenTree

Do I need to Use a Licensed Clinic for Artificial Insemination?

Licensed clinics are a safe way to be artificially inseminated because the sperm used will be screened for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and sperm will also be ‘washed’ to ensure optimum performance.

Licensed clinics can also ensure the sperm is placed directly in the womb (IUI) increasing the chances of pregnancy.

Licensed clinics can also use hormone treatments to stimulate the release of eggs and increase the chances of pregnancy. This may be beneficial for women with certain medical conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that make conception difficult.

Conceiving a child using a licensed clinic will also give you protection in law in most countries, as the sperm donor will have no legal rights over the child you conceive, (if they are not your partner).

If you decide not to use a licensed clinic artificial insemination (self-insemination) can be done at home using the traditional ‘Turkey Baster’ method or using an insemination kit but you will require a sperm donor or you will need to buy sperm from a licensed sperm bank.

If you are using a sperm donor you should insist that they undergo health screening tests first and show you evidence of the results.

You will also need to be aware when using a private arrangement that there are legal implications and the sperm donor may be regarded as the legal father of the child and any written agreement between you that says otherwise may not be enforceable.

You need to check the legal position in your country.

For those in the UK the law only guarantees that the sperm donor will not be regarded as the father, if the sperm donation is made to a lesbian couple through artificial insemination (no sexual intercourse) rather than natural insemination.

Please see our UK law section