Artificial insemination using donor sperm (AID)

What is it?

Sperm from a donor is introduced into the woman's uterus through a fine catheter. Usually, but not always, fertility drugs have been used to stimulate ovulation.

When is it appropriate?

Donor sperm will be used if the male partner has a very low sperm count, other sperm disorders, or if he produces no sperm at all. It is also done if ICSI (see further on) has failed using the male partner's sperm, or if the couple doesn't want to attempt ICSI.

Success rate:

Between 10 and 15 percent per cycle, rising to 50 percent over four cycles. The success of ICSI has meant that the donor insemination is less frequently used.

Possible drawbacks:

As with AIH, the low rate of success means that the majority of patients face a lot of disappointment and cost. All sperm donors must be screened for genetic disease and viruses. When the procedure results in pregnancy, a couple has to deal with the reality that only one of them is a biological parent.