Donor sperm is commonly used by single and gay/lesbian women to achieve a pregnancy. It is also used in the treatment of severe male factor infertility. Donor insemination can be used alone, or in combination with ovarian stimulation, depending on the particular fertility problem. In either case, insemination with donor sperm is timed to coincide with ovulation.

The screening of sperm donors, and processing and distribution of donor sperm for use in assisted reproduction is strictly regulated by Health Canada. For further details, refer to the Health Canada website.

At the Ottawa Fertility Centre, donor sperm is ordered by patients from Outreach Health Services Inc., a distributor for Xytex Corporation. Patients are encouraged to contact Heather Brooks at Outreach Health Services at 1 (866) 785-4709 for more information; however, we advise that you not place an order for donor sperm unless instructed to do so by your OFC physician.