What does Covid-19 mean for Sperm Donation?
The ongoing worldwide pandemic of Covid-19 (Coronavirus) has raised a lot of concerning questions around fertility, pregnancy, IVF and sperm donation.
Let us try to help answer some of your queries.
1) Can sperm donors still donate sperm during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Many countries are experiencing a lock down meaning you are only able to leave your home for essential travel. Sperm donation is not included as essential travel under this guidance therefore it is strongly recommended for sperm donors and recipients to wait for government clearance from the current lockdown before meeting recipients in person.
2) Is it dangerous to get pregnant if you get coronavirus?
Medical guidance currently suggests that pregnant women do not appear to be more likely to be seriously unwell than other healthy adults if they develop the new coronavirus. Most pregnant women, who have coronavirus, will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms.
3) If I get pregnant through sperm donation what should I do?
You should follow government advice about social distancing and stay away from public places.
Women will be supported and cared for safely through pregnancy and birth during this pandemic. Extra pressures will be placed on healthcare services however maternity services will continue to operate as best they can.
4) Will I be able to have my birth partner with me during labour and birth?
This is a worrying situation in some places who are suffering high Covid-19 cases such as New York. There are currently restrictions on birthing partners supporting during labour. There is a huge push to have this ruling overturned to enable birthing partners to be present.
Having a trusted birth partner present throughout labour is known to make a significant difference to the safety and well-being of women in childbirth. Let us hope New York will relax this ruling very soon.
5) What can we do right now if we are looking for a sperm donor?
With so many of us working from home now is a great time to search for a sperm donor or recipient. There is nothing to stop you looking online for a donor. You can message via online chat or email, ask questions, get to know each other via Facetime and then when it is safe to do so meet up and talk about sperm donation. Using this time to plan well will lead you in good stead to start your pregnancy journey when we are finally free from this dreadful virus.
In the meantime stay safe everyone. We are here to support you if you would like to reach out to us.